In the UK, the rapid deployment of both fibre broadband and 5G infrastructure has been changing the look of the property landscape. From both a residential and a commercial perspective, the need for telecom apparatus on building sites is a certainty. While this introduces another avenue in which landlords may seek to gain income, it is an area that is rife with difficulties from a legal, technical and financial perspective.
Arguably, the most significant decision that can be made by any landlord or property owner concerns appointing the correct telecom surveyor. It is no longer an option to appoint a competent surveyor – it is an absolute necessity, and this is where the role of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors comes into play.
The accreditation provided by RICS is universally recognised as the standard for excellence, professionalism and ethical behaviour within the property industry. In such circumstances, when a lease agreement is being entered into, the decisions made within that agreement have long-term implications; there is legislation, and of course, valuation issues to contend with, and using an accredited surveyor can make a vast difference.
Specialist companies like Arc Partners are RICS-accredited, which ensures landlord interests are best served by those able to advise on all aspects within such complex areas.
What is RICS accreditation?
RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) is the global professional body for surveyors. Its mission is to set, promote and enforce the highest international standards of excellence and integrity in the land, property and construction sectors.
A RICS-accredited surveyor has:
- Undertaken a rigorous training program and assessment
- Demonstrated their proficiency and skills
- Committed to maintaining high ethical standards
- Engaged in continuous professional development.
What is a Telecom Surveyor?
Telecom surveyors focus on the relationship between property owners and telecom operators, taking care of all aspects and going much further than the scope of a simple valuation exercise.
Their tasks usually include:
- Negotiating telecom leases and wayleaves
- Advising on income levels and rent potential
- Arranging access for telecom operators to your site
- Understanding telecom legislation and applying the rules
- Assisting with asset and redevelopment strategy
As these agreements can be complex, a professional and qualified surveyor is vital in securing a favourable position.
Why Telecommunications needs specialists:
Leases with telecom companies are a class of property leases separate from traditional commercial property deals. They include different legal aspects, technical specification issues and long-term contracts, all of which will influence property values.
Landlords must consider factors such as;
- The legislation controls access by telecom operators.
- The effect long-term agreements may have on future redevelopment potential.
- The position and effect of technical equipment;
- Methods of valuation of this particular type of agreement
This means that landlords should not take the risks of relying on less specialist advice when managing telecom agreements if they wish to maximise their return on investment and maintain flexibility within their property holdings.
Why the RICS is important in telecom surveying:
- Professional Standards and Accountability
RICS accreditation requires surveyors to adhere to a strict code of professional conduct. This helps guarantee that Landlords will receive the correct and truthful information they are seeking.
- Accurate Valuations and Tough Negotiation
Valuation of a telecom site is a specialist field in itself. RICS-accredited surveyors will have an in-depth knowledge of the specific market and how to achieve the highest returns available, avoiding the acceptance of “rock bottom” rental income.
How Arc Partners Help Landlords.
Arc Partners is a firm of specialist telecom advisors who work with landlords throughout the UK. They provide a service that will help you optimise and effectively manage your telecom agreements.
Key Services:
- Telecom surveys and advice-RICS Accredited
- Lease negotiation and rent review strategy
- Strategic telecom planning
- Portfolio management of multi-site locations
- Redevelopment support and asset protection.
Arc Partners can provide a high-quality professional service based on a combination of technical and commercial skills that have proven very effective for landlords across the UK.
When is a Telecom Survey required?
There is never a better time than the present for a professional to give you specialist advice relating to telecom agreements.
You will require the services of a telecom advisor if:
- You have a telecom agreement about to be signed.
- You have a lease which is about to be renewed.
- A telecom operator has contacted you in relation to your property.
- You have bought or are in the process of purchasing or selling a property.
- You are undertaking a redevelopment of your property.
The sooner you bring a specialist into your transaction, the more valuable the service that can be provided.
Things to ask a prospective Telecom Advisor:
- Is your firm RICS Accredited?
- Is your business focused solely on telecom surveys?
- Do you have extensive experience with similar properties to mine?
- Can you provide examples of successful lease negotiations?
- Do you update your knowledge in line with all of the legislative changes that occur in the telecom sector?
A good professional will be able to provide you with positive answers to all of these questions.
Trends in the Telecom Sector
The mobile telecommunications sector in the UK will continue to develop over the coming years, presenting new challenges and opportunities for landowners.
The future is about the continued rollout of 5G and fibre optics to accommodate these increased demands. This will mean more demand for landlords with properties in appropriate locations.
Regulations will be strengthened, and professional advice will become even more essential to landowners dealing with telecom operators.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is RICS accreditation and why does it matter?
RICS accreditation denotes a respected professional standard in the property sector, ensuring that the surveyors engaged have a high level of competence, integrity and ongoing training.
Do I require a RICS-accredited surveyor for telecom agreements?
There is no legal requirement for RICS-accredited surveyors; however, taking professional advice from them can greatly minimise risks involved, help in favourable negotiations and assist in adherence with telecom regulations.
How does a telecom surveyor benefit my property?
Telecom surveyors can aid in securing the maximum possible rent for the property, leading to beneficial contract terms and helping in safeguarding the long-term property value.
Can I negotiate directly with telecom operators?
Although yes, this can result in unfavourable terms as operators have substantial experience and are well aware of the legal procedures involved, which may make it hard for landlords to strike favourable terms.
Why should I select Arc Partners for my telecom consultancy?
Arc Partners possesses both RICS-accredited experience in property consultancy, and also offers specialised advice with regard to telecom issues, so that the landlord is guided to make the best decisions when dealing with telecom agreements.
Conclusion: Make the Right Choice From the Outset
The nature of telecom agreements is such that it can prove crucial for your property for years to come, affecting its earning capacity as well as its potential for development. Selecting the correct surveyors is therefore a vital part of making business decisions for landlords.
Working with RICS-accredited specialists such as Arc Partners helps to manage telecom agreements professionally, precisely and strategically.
In a fast-moving telecom market, RICS accreditation is not just a qualification; it is a reassurance of the future health of your property.
