From Perthshire to Shetland this Graduate Surveyor Tackles Diverse Rural Projects for Utility Clients

What does a typical day look like for you as a rural surveyor working between Aberdeen, Perth, and Angus?

There’s no such thing as a typical day! I split my time between our Perth, Aberdeen, and Forfar offices, on-site visits, and occasionally working from home. Working across different offices allows me to tap into the expertise of the wider team and get fresh perspectives on my projects. Since we handle utility projects across Scotland, one week I might be in Shetland doing site inspections, the next in Fife conducting a Record of Condition, or negotiating wayleaves in Aberdeenshire. Each day is driven by client deadlines, so it’s always varied.

How did you get into this field, and what led you to join Bell Ingram in Spring 2023?

Growing up on an estate where my parents worked – my mother as a bookkeeper and my father as a gamekeeper – sparked my interest in estate management. Dinner table conversations often revolved around what the estate’s factor advised the landowner. I enjoyed business studies in school, so I pursued a degree in Rural Business Management at SRUC, which included RICS-accredited modules. I started my career as a graduate surveyor in Dumfries and Galloway but later moved back to Aberdeenshire. During that time, I negotiated with utility companies on behalf of farmers, which made joining Bell Ingram a perfect opportunity to continue in land agency.

Can you explain what land referencing and negotiating wayleaves involve?

Land referencing involves identifying who owns a piece of land, typically for utility works like repairs, maintenance, or new installations. This is mostly desk-based, using online tools and contacting landowners to confirm boundaries. If ownership isn’t clear, we visit the site and consult with neighbouring landowners.

Negotiating wayleaves is more complex. A wayleave grants utility companies the right to work on a landowner’s property. Most landowners are cooperative once we explain everything, especially regarding compensation, but some are reluctant. In those cases, negotiation is key to finding terms that satisfy both parties.

What challenges do you face when working with clients in the utility industry?

Tight deadlines are a major challenge, especially for large projects involving multiple landowners. Since many projects are in rural areas, it’s hard to engage landowners during busy farming periods. Reaching agreements can take weeks or even months, affecting construction timelines. Balancing client needs with landowner concerns requires understanding both perspectives.

What aspects of your role do you find most rewarding?

The most rewarding part is completing a project smoothly, though problem-solving is often the real highlight. Overcoming challenges and finding solutions that work for both the client and landowner is satisfying.

How did your Rural Business Management degree from SRUC prepare you for this role?

My degree provided a strong foundation in the legal and business aspects of rural land management, particularly in working with the types of legal documents I deal with daily.

What do you enjoy most about negotiating servitudes and compensation agreements?

I love getting out on-site, especially in good weather, and meeting new people. Problem-solving is particularly rewarding, and it’s satisfying when we reach a mutual agreement that allows the project to move forward.

Any memorable experiences or projects that stand out during your time so far?

One memorable experience was a trip to Shetland. I spent four days traveling around the mainland, took my first ferry ride to Yell, and flew to Foula on an eight-seater plane. I hiked to one of our project sites, making it an unforgettable adventure.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in rural surveying?

Get as much work experience as possible! Whether you’re at university or thinking about an RICS-accredited course, try to do internships or shadow a professional to see if it’s the right career for you.

Where do you see your career evolving in the next few years?

I plan to pass my APC next year and sit my CAAV exams. After that, I aim to continue growing my skills and expertise in rural surveying.