As we approach the Christmas break, the ISSE team would like to take this opportunity to wish all our members, corporate affiliates, partners and colleagues a very Merry Christmas and a peaceful festive period.

This year has not been without its challenges. Across surveying, engineering and the wider construction sector, many have faced fluctuating workloads, commercial pressures and ongoing uncertainty. Despite this, the commitment shown by ISSE members to professionalism, competence and ethical practice has remained clear, and we are genuinely proud of it.

The Institute of Specialist Surveyors and Engineers exists to raise industry standards through education, qualifications and professional conduct. At a time when public trust, accountability and demonstrable competence matter more than ever, the role of properly trained and regulated specialists is increasingly important. We are grateful to everyone who continues to support that mission through their work, their learning and their engagement with the Institute.

Government Home Buying and Selling Consultation

Before the year closes, we would also like to briefly highlight the Government’s Home Buying and Selling Consultation, which is currently live.

We recognise that this is a wide-ranging consultation and, for many, a difficult one to engage with. However, it has the potential to introduce significant changes affecting inspection, reporting, professional involvement and consumer protection within the housing market.

The good news is that you do not need to complete every question to have your voice heard.

If nothing else, we would strongly encourage members to submit a short paragraph outlining their views. Even a brief response carries weight and helps ensure that policy development is informed by real-world professional experience.

You can respond in one of the following ways:

  • By completing the online consultation survey
    (Click here)
  • By emailing your views directly to:
    homebuyingandselling@communities.gov.uk
  • Or by submitting a written response by post: Home Buying and Selling Consultation
    Attn: Homeownership Division
    Fry Building
    2 Marsham Street
    Westminster
    London
    SW1P 4DF

For those who wish to provide a fuller response, we have prepared a helpful blog summary outlining its position, which may be used as a reference or starting point. (Click here for full details)

We will be sharing further commentary on this consultation separately, but we encourage members to engage where possible, even if only briefly.

Looking ahead to the New Year, ISSE will continue its focus on strengthening professional pathways, developing relevant qualifications, and supporting members in meeting the evolving expectations placed upon our professions. Further updates on this work will follow in early 2025.

For now, we hope that the coming days provide an opportunity to pause, rest and spend time with those close to you — however you choose to celebrate.

Thank you for your continued support of the ISSE.

From all of us at the Institute of Specialist Surveyors and Engineers, we wish you a very Happy Christmas and a healthy, joyous New Year.

With best wishes,

The ISSE Team
Institute of Specialist Surveyors and Engineers