Surveyor variability – application of social judgement theory

Surveyor variability has been previously identified as a barrier to the consistency and usability of house condition survey data. This paper explores the use of social judgement theory (SJT) as a potential method to account for, and reduce the impact of, surveyor variability. The study followed the principles of SJT first proposed by Egon Brunswik. The results of the study indicate that the SJT method does have the potential to aid understanding of the survey judgement policy of individual surveyors in terms of the importance they give to building elements and the underlying focus, or theme, of a survey. Knowledge of this policy could be utilised in house condition surveys by recalibration of survey results to take account of a surveyor’s policy. In addition, training requirements for individual surveyors could be identified.