Buildings are appraised by members of many differently focused
professional bodies. Achievement of sustainability targets is one such issue
requiring building appraisal. However, differing professional perspectives can
lead to a variance in appraisal approach and focus. This paper explores this
problematic issue for practicing surveying professionals when addressing the
concept of Sustainable Construction. Sustainability is the goal that construction
professionals aspire to in respect of the design, performance and impact of any
given building. The paper establishes that one of the most diffi cult aspects for fully
engaging the concept is, in fact, the lack of a general consensus among construction
professionals, as to what is an acceptable defi nition. This is cited as being due to
them having disparate professional foci when addressing the sustainability agenda.
The paper therefore explores how this issue could be overcome via the provision
of Continuing Professional Development events, or standard degree awards,
for practicing professional surveyors, which could lead to a greater standardisation
of approach to the appraisal of the current Built Environment in respect of the
sustainability agenda.