RICS releases first global standard for responsible use of AI in surveying

In a move designed to guide the profession through a period of rapid technological transformation, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has recently introduced the first global professional standard governing the responsible use of artificial intelligence in surveying. The standard is set to take effect on 9 March 2026, applying to all RICS members and regulated firms worldwide.

As AI becomes increasingly embedded in valuation, construction, land management and infrastructure services, RICS aims to ensure that the technology is deployed transparently, ethically and with rigorous professional oversight. The integration of artificial intelligence with geospatial technologies is already reshaping how professionals understand and engage with the built and natural environment. Combining AI with geographic information systems, surveyors can automate complex analytical tasks, accelerate the processing of satellite data and point clouds, and extract deeper insights from rapidly expanding data resources. These advances are enabling more precise mapping, enhancd risk assessment and highly efficient 3D modelling workflows – signalling a major shift in professional practice across the sector.

Surveyors remain accountable

The new standard set expectations that reflect this acceleration in technological adoption. It places emphasis on robust governance and risk management, requiring organizations to establish clear policies for responsible data use and system oversight, supported by documented due diligence and continuous risk evaluation. Surveyors remain accountable for all outputs generated through AI-assisted workflows and must apply professional judgement when assessing the reliability and suitability of those results. Transparent communication with clients is now a mandatory element of service delivery, including written disclosure  of when and how AI tools will be used and the options available should clients wish to limit their use. For organizations developing their own AI-capabilities, the requirements extend to ensuring data integrity, assessing sustainability impacts, involving stakeholders appropriately and meeting all legal and regulatory obligations.

RICS acting president elect Maureen Ehrenberg highlighted the importance of aligning innovation with accountability and trust. She noted that artificial intelligence “offers real promise to the surveying profession – but only if used responsibly and ethically.” She added that the new standard “ensures surveyors remain at the forefront of innovation while protecting clients, data, and public trust” and that it “supports the profession’s adaptation to rapidly advancing technologies while reinforcing the core role of the surveyor – to provide trusted, independent, and ethical advice.” Ehrenberg further said the initiative reflects RICS’s mission to uphold the highest technical and ethical standards across the built and natural environment and ensure that innovation is aligned with the public interest.

Further details are available in the full standard document.