Real estate firms across Europe have been, for the first time, offered the opportunity to become regulated by The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) to demonstrate to the public their ethical commitment in their daily business practices.

There have been 10,000 firms already successfully registered in the UK since 2007, and RICS regulation is now available on a voluntary basis to qualifying firms in continental Europe.

Diane Telford, director of Regulation Operations at RICS, said: “Many European firms are already recognising the advantages of being ‘Regulated by RICS’. It offers a level of recognition, professionalism and confidence that’s unrivalled throughout the world and gives their business true global identity.”

So far 30 European firms have already signed up and expressed their interest to become RICS regulated firms.

By using the designation Regulated by RICS and the RICS logo, firms will publicly advertise their commitment to a strict code of conduct. Furthermore, firms will also benefit from effective monitoring and regulatory advice in order to improve their business practices. To register as a RICS regulated firm and benefit from these advantages, at least 50% of the directors/principals in the firm need to be RICS members and offer surveying services to the public. Registration is free of charge.