When preparing my submission documents for the RICS APC, one of the most valuable resources I used was a previously successful submission shared by a former colleague. Having access to a real successful example gave me a clear understanding of how to structure and populate my own documentation effectively. With that in mind, I’m sharing this example which helped a colleague pass the APC in 2019 and hope you find this a useful resource as you work towards your APC.
RICS APC Submission Example
The following RICS APC Submission document helped my colleague pass their APC successfully in 2019 and I really hope you find this a useful resource.
Ethics, Rules of Conduct & Professionalism
Level 1: I fully understand the importance of my professional role and acknowledge society expectations of my role as a surveyor. I appreciate the significance of the RICS Rules of Conduct and understand the importance of these in addition to the professional obligations of firms and members. I also recognise the importance of the RICS and its high standards which are set out within guidance documents. I have attended training on the Bribery Act 2010; General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Complaints Handling Procedures.
Level 2: During tender periods I ensure that I am transparent and treat all contractors equally. When queries are raised by contractors during the tendering stage, I ensure that my response is shared between all tendering contractors. My employers were appointed to undertake a schedule of condition and provide a Schedule of Works on an Edwardian Manor House. Following the completion and submission of these two documents, the client requested further additions to the schedule which did not form part of the original brief. I discussed this with the client and it was agreed that this would be subject to an additional pro rata fee.
Level 3: On a Warehouse refurbishment project in Kettering, the client asked for the Main Contractors programme to be accelerated. Asbestos was found adjacent to the working area and the Construction Phase Plan had not yet been issued. I raised these concerns with the client and clarified that the appropriate programme had been set before the tender stage to allow for the works to be safely undertaken. I emphasised to the client how important it is to allow adequate time for H&S matters in the programme. During my involvement on a CCTV control room relocation project, the client provided a detailed instruction to design a CCTV room on a large staircase landing. Following my inspection, it appeared that the client’s proposal was not suitable and did not meet regulations. After some discussion, the client pressured me to continue which I resisted but agreed I would be able to provide a suitable alternative.
Client Care
Level 1: Upon receiving an instruction, I ensure that all information and expectations are assembled into a client brief. This guarantees that there are no misinterpretations before the project progresses. Throughout a project I ensure that I maintain effective communication between all relevant parties. I use various communication platforms to settle queries and complaints but always ensure that the outcome is agreed in writing. When chairing meetings, I provide a clear and relevant agenda. My professional approach to client care has meant that the client is content with my approach, commitment, reporting and management of a project.
Level 2: I have formed part of design teams and attended weekly meetings with the client to understand their requirements. Attending these meetings have provided direction when undertaking exercises such as ‘Value Engineering’ to reduce project expenditure. The client at University Hospital Leicester appointed my employer to design and specify the scope of works. The client asked me for direction on which JCT contract to use. Due to the nature of the works the programme was likely to be too short in duration. I made the client aware that elements of the works required design by a structural engineer, due to this I noted that Contractor Design Portion would not be required. I confirmed back to the client that the JCT Intermediate Contract was the most appropriate contract.
Communication & Negotiation
Level 1: I understand that it is an essential skill for me to communicate clearly. I recognise that the clients are not always familiar with processes and standards and due to this it is crucial that I am able to communicate in layman terms. When communicating I utilise a range of platforms which include written, oral and visual tools such as charts/graphs and PowerPoint presentations. When establishing a relationship with a client I clarify the client’s preferred means of communication. If a negotiation or decision has been agreed I ensured the changes are formally recorded and issued to all relevant parties.
Level 2: I led a team of surveyors to undertake condition surveys of 520 retail units. As the technical lead, I attended training with the central team and cascaded this information down to my colleagues. As programme manager I discussed and reviewed workloads with my colleagues and allocated the appropriate volumes of surveys. I have acted as Contract Administrator in various projects. To ensure that communication is maintained throughout a project I chair pre-start meetings and fortnightly progress meetings. I capture all minutes and actions throughout each meeting and provide written copies to all attendees within 5 working days. When undertaking progress meetings, I produce progress reports which I share with the client. I have presented at local Universities to explain my role as a Building Surveyor to encourage graduates to pursue careers within the industry.
Health & Safety
Level 1: I am aware of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 as well as construction related law such as Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, CDM Regulations 2015, The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002, The Work at Height Regulations 2005 and RICS Surveying Safely. I have attended Asbestos Awareness Training and internal Principal Designer training. I have attended various H&S training and I also hold a CSCS card. I have also attended training on the use of equipment to mitigate risks such as Pole Cams’ to alleviate the risk of falling from height.
Level 2: I regularly assist the Principal Designer in compiling together the Pre-Construction Information Plans. I often review the Construction Phase Plan ahead of the Principal Designer to provide initial feedback to the contractor. I ensure that the documentation which has been submitted is relevant and not generic to ensure a suitable level of thought and planning has been undertaken by the contractor. The client requested for failed light fittings to be replaced to temporarily occupy a building. I highlighted to the client that the Asbestos management survey recorded Asbestos within the ceiling voids and therefore it was not possible to replace the fittings due to the exposure of Asbestos fibres without undertaking any Asbestos remedial works. I suggested an alternative solution.
Business Planning
Level 1: Monthly meetings are held by my employer to share the company’s financial ‘Opportunities’ and ‘Wins’. The meetings also clarify the goals, objectives and the planned future of the company. I regularly populate a workload tracker which allows me to forecast my capacity for the coming months and I attend fortnightly team meetings. I have undertaken service reviews to establish any enhancements in delivery of projects. This allows me to improve my service but also by displaying a proactive approach to service improvement often encourages repeat business.
Accounting Principles & Procedures
Level 1: I understand the importance of profitability and charging a minimum fee or hourly rate if the job is of lower value. I provide information to populate my employer’s fee forecast so they can review cash flow and know when to submit invoices. I have been provided with Work in Progress (WIP) training where I have learnt about how forecasts and profitability are reviewed by the senior team. I have also learnt about balance sheets and profit and loss accounts.
Conflict Avoidance, Management and Dispute Resolution Procedures
Level 1: I am aware of options for dispute resolution and how adjudication is referenced within the JCT Standard Contract. I understand that it is best practice to undertake initial discussions and negotiations such as mediation before progressing to Adjudication. I have knowledge of the two possible options after Adjudication of either litigation or arbitration. As Project Manager, when contractors have fallen behind the contractual expectations, I have communicated at the earliest opportunity my concerns and agreed a recovery plan. Once agreed, I have shared the progress and recovery plan with the client. In such instances I often find it helpful to hold a ‘lessons learnt’ meeting. This process allows me to manage expectations, avoid disputes and builds trusting and transparent relationships with the client.
Data Management
Level 1: I have also undertaken General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) training through my employer and understand its importance. When a client shows interest in utilising my services, I ensure that a job file is created within my employer’s internal data management system. The database itself complies with The Data Protection Act 2018. Filed documents include meeting minutes, agreed fees, action notes, reports, photographs and progress reports/graphs.
Sustainability
Level 1: I understand the importance of BREEAM, SKA, Code for Sustainable Homes and Part L of the Building Regulations. I am also aware of The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) and actions which need to be undertaken by the Landlord to improve energy efficiency of their properties. When assisting the Principal Designer with the PCI, I include references to the waste management.
Teamworking
Level 1: I understand the importance of working within a team, with colleagues and as part of a project team. I have managed various specialists including structural engineers, soil sampling specialists, ground investigation specialists and M&E engineers to ensure reports and specifications are delivered to the agreed timescales. Understanding team dynamics allows me to successfully deliver projects.
Building Pathology
Level 1: I gained an understanding of building defects such as damp at university and received training on how to use equipment such as damp meters. I have knowledge of common defects within older properties such as Victorian era dwellings and post war light industrial buildings. When I discovered a defect that I have not been able to identify I have taken detailed notes and photographs. I have shared these with colleagues and undertaken further research using the BRE and CIS to identify the defect and appropriate remedial action.
Level 2: The client was concerned that a plastered ceiling was delaminating as a section of plaster had fallen. A refurbishment project had recently been completed and the works were within the defect liability period. I undertook a ‘tap test’ with a rubber hammer and a platform to locate any hollow sounding areas. It appeared the plaster was defective in the isolated area and the contractor was asked to return to repair the defect. I undertook a maintenance survey of an industrial building following complaints of a roof leak beneath the valley gutter. I inspected the roof using a Pole Cam and reviewed the design of the internal downpipes. I was informed by the maintenance manager that the valley gutter and down pipes were always clear of debris when these issues occurred. I concluded that the downpipes were insufficient for the size of the roof. When there were heavy showers the water was backing up and entering the building from beneath the roof flashing and finish. I carried out an inspection to a toilet where damp was present to the external walls. Following a review of the internal and external areas, I identified that this was caused by poor external drainage and a bridged damp proof course which has been rendered over.
Level 3: I produced a condition report and Schedule of Works for a poorly maintained Victoria property. The pointing around the chimney stacks were weathered and the flashing had pulled away from the masonry. Many timber sash windows were heavily weathered and rotten. There were issues with rising and penetrating damp within the basement. I recommended repairs to restore the elements back to its original condition and reutilise as much of the original materials as possible. When specifying the remedial works to the basement, I approached the client to decide on their preferred option. The client asked to include both options within the Schedule of Works so that each could be priced. I specified refurbishment works to several unoccupied offices within a four storey Victorian building. During the inspection I discovered a large crack between the junction of an external wall and internal wall which spanned through all floors. Following a review by the engineer, structural straps were recommended to all floor joists and walls to strengthen the structure.
Construction Technology & Environmental Services
Level 1: My project involvement has developed my awareness of the various work stages from design to completion and through private study I have gained knowledge of the RIBA work stages. I regularly attend site meetings to review progress and undertake valuations and have witnessed different projects at varying stages of construction. This has given me an understanding of how the elements of a building inter-relate. For example how a steel frame is connected to the foundations via holding down bolts, how rain screen cladding is fixed to an external blockwork wall via a bracket system and how an internal stud partition is constructed.
Level 2: When working on a refurbishment of lecture theatres for Leeds Met University, one of the client’s key requirements was to install acoustic panelling to achieve sound proofing and hard wearing floor finishes due to the high volume of footfall. In contrast when working for Associated British Foods on the development of a food processing facility, a key requirement was to achieve a large unobstructed floor area via a portal frame solution. I therefore appreciate that there are differing design solutions based on the different types, uses and occupation of buildings. My post contract experience working on St Bedes and Frederick Gough secondary schools provided exposure to the different foundation types such as piling and pad foundations and external wall constructions such as brick and blockwork versus glazed curtain walling.
Level 3: I have advised on cost and programme implications for differing construction solutions. For example, I have advised on the cost difference between a variable refrigerant flow air conditioning system and twin split system for a proposed building. This allowed the client to make an informed decision on whether to proceed with the acquisition of an existing shell unit whilst being aware of the additional costs associated with a compulsory VRF system required by the Landlord. I have also advised on the cost difference between different road construction types of an entrance and car park where it was agreed with the designer that the original road depth specification was unnecessary and subsequently reduced to deliver a saving for the client.
Contract Administration
Level 1: I regularly use the Joint Contracts Tribunal contracts such as Minor Works, Intermediate, both with or without Contractors Design. I understand the differences between each JCT contract type. A regular client I work with is a Major Logistics company who use the JCT 2011 contract with amendments. I have knowledge of the different procurement routes and the circumstances they should be used. I also understand the main differences between the JCT and NEC contracts. I understand the purpose of direct loss and expense, Liquidated and Ascertained damages, Liability (third party) insurance, insurance of works, performance bonds and collateral warranties.
Level 2: As contract administrator, I produce certificates of payment, practical completion, non-completion, extension of time and contract instructions. I also check contract documents, bonds, warranties, authorise the commencement of works and organise the handover meetings. It was agreed that I would receive interim valuations from the contractor and payments would be made monthly as per the clients JCT 2011 contract amendments. After visiting the site, I reviewed valuations produced by the contractor. I evaluated the extent of the works undertaken against this valuation and then issued a certificate of payment. This certificate prompted the contractor to submit an invoice to the client. As part of a project, the contractor was undertaking line marking alteration works to a yard. The building manager asked the contractor to leave some hatching in place. Whilst undertaking a site visit on the planned date of practical completion, I raised this with the contractor and confirmed with the client that the hatching was still to be removed. I reminded the contractor that instructions were only applicable when received by the Contract Administrator and noted that this was not the first time this had occurred during the project. The contractor had priced to install steel socket bollards in a yard. The specification provided a detailed design of the bollards and sockets. Despite this, incorrect bollards were installed. I issued an instruction to remove and replace the non-compliant works which following negotiations the contractor undertook. As this error caused the project to overrun the planned completion date, I issued a Non-completion certificate. Once the works had been completed, I issued a Practical Completion certificate. A few weeks after the Practical Completion certificate had been submitted, the client asked for additional work relating to the original project. I told the client that I would progress these works as instructions rather than a separate contract and through a competitive tender. I informed the client that the contractor would not be working under contract dates and works would not be covered by the defect’s liability period. The client confirmed that they would proceed at risk as the work was unlikely to fail within the first 12 months. I reminded the client that they should notify their insurers when the works were carried out. During the project the client requested additional works unrelated to the main project. I asked the client to attend the next progress meeting so that we could discuss and confirm these requests. This allowed the contractor to price additional items and to avoid disruption to the main project. I reminded the end user and client of my role as the Contract Administrator. I made it clear that instruction of additional elements of work may delay the project and potential cost implications if the contractor is issued with an extension of time.
Design & Specification
Level 1: I have gained experience in writing preliminaries, preambles, material and workmanship, Schedule of Works and produced drawings. I understand the RIBA stages of work. I have learnt to make allowances for other elements which may be affected by the works I specify. When designing, I consider all Building Regulations and CDM2015 Regulations to ensure that my design is approved by Building Control. Where I have completed a Schedule of Condition, I often utilise this to form a Schedule of Works. Ahead of compiling a feasibility study or specification, I will organise a design meeting to establish the client’s requirements and budgets.
Level 2: When producing the specification for East Finchley studios, I took into consideration the services which ran above the ceiling. After accessing the ceiling void, I altered the route of the partition so that the penetrations made by the pipework were minimised to reduce cost and complexity. Consideration was also taken on a linear ventilation grille which spanned from one proposed room into the next. The supply to the grille was non-existent and due to potential dilapidation claims later in time, I consulted an M&E engineer who confirmed they could be cut and capped at each end. The client’s design standards team confirmed that internal partitions were required to provide a 40Db rating. I reviewed the British Gypsum ‘White Book’ to specify the most suitable plasterboard. I designed the partitions to be built between the concrete floor and ceiling slab and allowed for all penetrating M&E services to be sealed. When specifying the works for a logistics company which required temporary removal of security equipment, I obtained a quote from the client’s internal fire and security team to assist the main contractor as per the client’s directions. During the design phase I utilised the latest client design standards. Once drafted, I provide these to the maintenance teams for review. Oldham – Feasibility Study I undertook a feasibility study and prepared a sketch to provide the client with an initial design for approval before completing CAD drawings. When undertaking the Peterborough access audit I undertook an Access Audit to recommend ‘Reasonable Adjustments’ to meet the requirements set out within The Equality Act 2010. I recommended that doors were widened and changes were made to nearby elements, such as light switches to meet with Building Regulations Document M. The entrance was accessible via an external step. There was insufficient space to provide level access externally as the door opened directly onto a pedestrian pathway. I recommended for the internal slab to be broken out and sloped to achieve the gradients within Building Regulations Document M. To enable this, I included for the door and threshold to be lowered and for all surrounding finishes to be renewed. My report included drawings which showed the existing and proposed changes.
Level 3: I was asked by the client to design and specify an external ramp. After review, I found there was insufficient space to incorporate a ramp to meet the gradient set out within Part M. An area of curtain walling was located adjacent to the access door and following measurements, I confirmed there was enough room to design a L shaped ramp. Once the client had agreed the changes, I specified the works and included for the curtain walling to be adapted and internal electric heaters to be relocated. The client had a basement, planned to lease as an office area. I was asked by the client to offer an internal design of a welfare area, refurbishment of the existing WC’s and workspace to comply with Building Regulations. I undertook an inspection with the client and sketched options to show my initial thoughts. The client suggested to block a fire escape route which led into an occupied area and for the tenants to use an alternative fire escape route. I took measurements on site and confirmed that the travel distance was not appropriate. I recommended that the door which led into the occupied area was fitted with an alarm and a fail-safe access control.
Inspection
Level 1: I undertake inspections in line with the RICS Surveying Safely guidance document. I recognise when specialist investigation is required. Before inspecting a property, I ask the client for a copy of the Asbestos Management survey. Where available I read historic condition survey reports to review whether there have been ongoing issues. I have a good knowledge of types of inspection. In my initial training I have assisted with ‘occupation surveys’ which include Access Audits and pre-acquisition surveys. Further to this I have undertaken Planned Maintenance Inspections and Condition Surveys. I have experience of undertaking condition surveys using technology and have been involved in the development and design of ‘RLB Field’ app for several projects.
Level 2: I undertook Schedule of Condition surveys to several properties. The scope of the survey was to capture the condition of all internal and external elements. The reports provided element descriptions, condition ratings, condition descriptions, photos, recommendations, budget costs and provided the life expectancy for each element. These findings were summarised in the front sheets of the report with the use of various graphs and charts. I undertook a pre-acquisition survey of a commercial building. I requested documentation from the client prior to the survey to undertake a desktop study. Documents included drawings of the site (building fabric and services) and Asbestos Management Survey reports. I noticed that the external drainage was partly blocked. I organised for a CCTV drainage survey and results confirmed that the drainage had partly collapsed. Risks and maintenance works were highlighted and detailed within the report.
Level 3: I undertook ‘Development Surveys’ for a UK client who was looking to partly occupy several retail spaces in France. The clients brief noted that the proposals were to be designed to meet UK standards. I reviewed Building Regulations and the Metric Handbook. Once I had returned, the designs were then drafted using CAD. The designs were presented to the client for comment. I acted as project lead and organised asset condition surveys in over 20 buildings in Leicester. The data collected provided details of condition and proposed expenditure. I presented findings to the client using graphs and charts. I provided recommendation on immediate expenditure to several buildings. These urgent works were H&S led or provided risk of progressive failure. An example of this was a leaking roof within an unused building. I advised the client that if the roof was not replaced it would cause further defects internally such as rot to timber joists.
Legal & Regulatory Compliance
Level 1: At University I learnt about party wall matters and dilapidations. I am aware of the importance of Building and Health and Safety regulations which I consider when designing works. I am also aware of the Equality Act 2010. Before undertaking a site visit, I write method statements and risk assessments. When specifying works within a leasehold building, I request a copy of the lease from the client. This allows me to meet the client’s requirement but minimise potential dilapidations claims. I have completed planning permission applications and understand the importance of listed buildings and conservation areas.
Level 2: During the design phase I organised an Asbestos R&D survey as the building was built before the year 2000. Asbestos was found beneath the vinyl floor tiles. Following recommendation, I organised removal prior to refurbishment works, this provided the contractor with a safe working environment. I prepared the pre-construction Information and designer risk assessments for the Principal Designer before including this within the tender documents. I have organised many asbestos refurbishment and demolition surveys for my client for a wide range of projects. Following the results of the surveys, I have arranged removal or encapsulation by a licensed asbestos removal contractor, prior to the building works taking place. Undertaking this work creates a safe working environment for the main contractor as well as the building occupants.
Level 3: I have managed Asbestos survey programmes for clients to ensure compliance requirements are met. The surveys were undertaken in line with The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. I have managed a remedial work programme, following findings during a management survey programme. I liaised with the consultant to discuss options for the deteriorating Asbestos. Once action was agreed I obtained a specification and cost proposal from the specialist. Following instruction, I liaised with the specialist and reviewed documentation at milestones. This included the HSE notification and following completion, the 4-stage completion certificate. I was asked by the client to deliver a Condition Survey and Schedule of Works for two buildings which were joined. As part of this project I was asked to review the term and conditions noted within the leases. There was a lease in place for each building which terminated on different dates. I reviewed both leases prior to undertaking the site visit. Following the inspection, I organised a meeting with the client to discuss my findings and I advised the client where they had fallen short of the lease obligations. Following discussions, it was agreed that the Schedule of Works would include all lease related works. I undertook a Condition Survey at a Victorian property and specified works to remediate defects. I specified for all rotten single glazed timber sash windows to be upgraded to double glazing, I advised the client that Planning Permission would be required. Upon instruction I completed the planning application, issued notices to the tenants and complied a photo schedule. As this property was within a conservation area, I provided a heritage statement. I inherited the Hollinwell refurbishment project from a former employee and managed the project from tender stage through to completion. During the prestart meeting the contractor highlighted issues with the design of the perimeter window. This design did not take into consideration the concrete frame. I informed the client of the issue and advised that I would raise a non-material amendment to remove one of the windows from the design. This change was reviewed by the planning officer and approved.
Legal & Regulatory Compliance
Level 1: I have learnt to analyse the client’s requirements and agree the brief. I am aware of the term ‘scope creep’ and understand the importance of agreeing the brief at this early stage. Once agreed, I make an assessment as to whether a specialist will be required before providing a proposed fee. I understand the importance of keeping strong communication with the client to ensure they are aware of any issues or delays in programme.
Level 2: I regularly manage projects within occupied buildings. I discuss programme and phasing options with the client to minimise disruptions to occupied areas and ensure that the client’s staff are working in a safe environment. Previously, clients have had limited budgets. When undertaking a cost exercise, I ensure an appropriate contingency is included to capture any unforeseen costs. I was appointed to design a yard to include pedestrian walkways, welfare facilities, parking and access routes for double decker trailers. I provided the client with sketches based on discussions with the operations team. This gave the client an opportunity to visualise the proposals and comment before designs were finalised. I was asked to undertake a feasibility study to merge two offices. The study included design options with an elemental cost breakdown using information from BCIS, Spons Price Book and costings from previous projects. I identified the requirement of some costing to be advised by an M&E specialist. Using this specialist enabled me to provide the client with an accurate breakdown with less risk built into the cost.
Measurement of Land & Property
Level 1: I have a good understanding of how to efficiently and accurately undertake measurement of buildings. I am aware of the RICS Property Measurement 2nd Edition (January 2018) guidance note. I am familiar with tape and laser measurement and understand the limitations of each tool. I am aware of various measurements including IPMS as well as Gross Internal Area (GIA) and Net Internal Area (NIA).
Level 2: I have undertaken measured surveys of both buildings and land. I have set out requirements for Topographic surveys by others. Before undertaking a survey, I ask the client whether there are existing drawings. When these are available, I check dimensions on site and update the drawings to reflect the current layout. If drawings are not available, I sketch the internal layout before taking running dimension measurements. I was also asked to provide existing drawings of a shared car park before the client agreed to rent a section. I showed access to the site, parking spaces of the double decker trailers, the client’s demise and the demise of the 18 other companies. Following this, the client asked me to review the layout of the demise to include turning circles, parking areas, welfare cabins and pedestrian walkways. This was provided to the client’s operator’s licence manager for approval.
Works Progress & Quality Managemen
Level 1: I recognise the importance of site visits and progress meetings to review progress and quality. When undertaking visits, I ensure that I bring copies of the costed documents and drawings. Upon completion of a visit I produce progress reports which include photos, risks and programme updates. Carrying out such visits also allows me to review whether works are being carried out as specified. I undertake progress meetings to discuss the programme and provide the contractor with the opportunity to highlight any issues. Following the meetings, I provide minutes to confirm discussions and actions.
Level 2: Undertaking fortnightly site visits, I was able to identify an issue. The client’s maintenance contractor was due to undertake some works before the main contractor started on site. After inspection, I spoke with the client’s contractor who confirmed that the works were delayed due to resource levels. Upon request the client’s contractor provided me with an updated programme. I shared this with the main contractor and client, this allowed me to manage the client’s programme expectations. Due to the travel distance between the London offices, I inspected the works on a monthly basis but held regular weekly conference calls where I discussed progress and responded to queries. I organised a video call with members of the operation team to respond to a technical query.
What Is The Summary Of Experience
The APC Summary of Experience is where you take your real life surveying tasks and day to day achievements and allocate this in to each of the competencies that are required on your particular pathway, whether that is Quantity Surveying, Building Surveying, Commercial Real Estate, Valuation or Project Management etc. The Summary of Experience is comprised of brief statements of how your experience has achieved the mandatory and technical competencies at each of the required levels.
The mandatory and technical competencies are required at various levels for example level 1 is knowledge and awareness, Level 2 contains references to your practical surveying experience and Level 3 is experience where you have provided your advice. The submission is issued to the RICS and the assessors who will be conducting your final assessment interview. They are looking for evidence that you can do the relevant job at the required level. They will base the majority of the final assessment interview questioning on your submission documentation as the APC is a record of how you personally have demonstrated the levels of competence required. Therefore, it’s very important to base the majority of revision around your own submission and know your documentation in a great level of detail to the point where you are comfortable in talking the assessors through all of the experience you have referenced. All of the competency requirements both mandatory and the ones specific to your pathway are listed out in the competency requirements and pathway guides which are available to download on the RICS website. Before you start this process I’d highly recommend printing out both guides so you can use these to sense check your experience against.
How To Complete The Summary Of Experience
Whilst referring to previous submission examples is useful, please see a full step by step explanation on how to complete the Summary of Experience as follows:
Step 1 – Download the Pathway and Candidate Guides
These guides contain the examples of experience you can refer to within your submission and how this can be allocated against each of the competencies. They are an essential reference point for all APC candidates so be sure to keep a copy of these close by when completing your submission.
Step 2 – Record Experience in your APC Diary
The screen shot below provides an example of how to populate your diary entries. If we have produced a Cost Plan, this experience could be allocated against the Design Economics and Cost Planning competency at Level 2. Remember that Level 1 is knowledge and awareness, Level 2 is practical experience and Level 3 is where you have provided advice. The diary record needs to be populated in either half or full days. We also need to record which competency each ½ day is allocated against.
We only need to reference the client or project title and include brief descriptions of the work you have carried out.
Step 3 – Allocate your experience into the correct competencies
Refer back to your diary entries and allocate your experience into each of the competencies within your Summary of Experience document whilst referring back to the candidate guide. For example the below extract from the candidate guide shows that if a candidate had presented a cost plan to a client or design team, this experience should be allocated against Level 3 of the Design Economics and Cost Planning Competency.
Step 4 – Write up your experience within your submission
Now its time to write up your experience by loading up your Summary of Experience document and populating clear, concise examples of the work you have undertaken. Be sure to allocate this into the correct competency and correct level. Sentences should be constructed using perfect grammar, punctuation and spelling. Refer to the example submission below as a guide on how to populate your submission. Be broad and refer to multiple projects, clients and contract types where possible.
Step 5 – Review with counsellor and supervisor
Aim to review your Summary of Experience every 3 months with your supervisor and every 6 months with your supervisor and counsellor. Ask them to check the entries to ensure they are allocated appropriately with correct spelling, punctuation and grammar. When they are satisfied with the entries, ask your supervisor and counsellor to sign off your competencies at the appropriate level.
Summary Of Experience Word Count Limits
The RICS are very prescriptive around the word count limits for the Summary of Experience and Case Study. They can reserve the right to cancel your final assessment interview if the word counts are exceeded. Part of the rationale behind this is making sure that you are able to understand and comply with a client’s brief. Unlike some university assignments there is no 10% margin for error so please be sure to comply with the following word counts when writing up your summary of experience:
- Summary of Experience Mandatory Competencies – 1,500 words
- Summary of Experience Core Competencies – 4,000 words
- Case Study – 3,000 Words including Headings and Subheadings but excluding the appendices and contents page.
Successful Examples: Summary Of Experience Submissions
- Quantity Surveying – Click Here
- Building Surveying – Click Here
- Commercial Real Estate – Click Here
- Valuation – Click Here
- Project Management – Click Here
RICS APC Q&A STUDY GUIDES
