SOE Q's Flashcards
What steps would you take to ensure compliance with RICS ethical standards when lacking competence in approving an application?
Inform the client about limitations and recommend a qualified building surveyor for expert review.
This adheres to Rule 2 of the RICS Rules of Conduct, ensuring professional and ethical decision-making.
How do you ensure client communication remains professional and effective when handling complaints?
Promptly address the complaint following Workman’s Complaints Handling Procedure, ensuring clear communication and efficient resolution.
How would you communicate and negotiate effectively to resolve a tenant’s dispute over service charge increases?
Explain reasons for the increase in a meeting, providing detailed information on costs and implications, and negotiate appropriate concessions if necessary.
What actions would you take if you notice fire escape routes obstructed during a property inspection?
Inform the general manager, request urgent relocation of the pallets, and follow up with written communication.
How would you ensure transparency and value for money when setting service charge budgets for a multi-let property?
Create detailed schedules, consult with tenants, and provide transparent rationale behind charges.
How would you address a tenant’s dispute over liability for service charges due to apportionment errors?
Review lease terms to confirm apportionment method, communicate findings to the tenant, and recommend mediation or refer to RICS DRS if the dispute persists.
Why is promoting diversity and inclusion within a property management team essential?
It fosters collaboration, leads to innovative problem-solving, and strengthens stakeholder relationships.
What would you do if a tenant serves a break notice that you suspect might be invalid?
Review lease terms for compliance, advise the client of potential issues, and recommend seeking legal advice.
How would you ensure compliance with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) for a commercial property portfolio?
Review EPC ratings, identify properties below minimum standards, and arrange upgrades in collaboration with the client.
Describe your approach to conducting an internal valuation for a light industrial property undergoing refurbishment.
Measure the property for Gross Internal Area (GIA), research comparable market evidence, and calculate market rent using the investment method.
How would you communicate substantial repair works required for a property you manage to the tenants?
Organize a meeting to outline the scope, provide cost breakdowns, explain funding, and offer regular updates.
What steps do you take to ensure data accuracy and compliance with GDPR when handling client information?
Regularly review and update property data, follow Workman’s Data Protection Policy, and verify data accuracy during audits.
How do you decide which measurement standard to use for different property types?
Refer to RICS Professional Statement and IPMS, using distinct bases like Net Internal Area (NIA) for retail and IPMS for offices.
How does your role contribute to the achievement of client KPIs?
Participate in team meetings to align property management tasks with client goals and KPIs.
How do you approach the rent review process when presented with a rent review clause in a lease?
Analyze the clauses, collect comparable evidence, and provide a report to the client for informed negotiations.
How do you prevent conflicts of interest when receiving instructions for a new task?
Perform a conflict check for each instruction and recommend independent experts if a conflict arises.
What steps do you take to create inclusive environments across properties you manage?
Arrange regular audits for accessibility and ensure compliance with the Equality Act 2010.
How do you balance sustainability with cost-effectiveness in property management?
Assess EPC recommendations, prioritize cost-effective upgrades, and analyze energy usage reports for improvement opportunities.
