The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has launched a new global industry code of practice that sets out high-level steps to bring transparency and consistency to the facility management procurement process.

It comes at a time when the expertise of facility management professionals is playing a crucial role in supporting occupiers and building owners to manage challenges through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Clients and service providers will benefit from new clear guidance within the code outlining the key factors that need to be considered through the planning, procurement and post-procurement of facility management services.

Designed to be applicable globally, the new code will support public and private sector property professionals to help clients understand the value of facility management expertise.

Paul Bagust, RICS Global Property Standards Director, commented:

“By 2027, the global facilities management market is forecast to be worth $1.62 trillion. RICS has sought to enhance professionalism in the sector and this new code will support effective and ethical procurement – based on clearly defined criteria and a consistent, transparent processes.”

Kath Fontana, RICS President-Elect, commented:

“Successful procurement is about much more than cost. By encompassing value in its broadest sense, this new code for facilities management procurement will drive consistency, transparency and clearly defined requirements to the benefit of clients and asset users across society. By embracing these principles, RICS professionals can further build trust in their critical expertise and continue their vital work to improve the experience of everyone who lives and works in the built environment.”

The new global code supersedes the RICS 2018 UK professional statement on the procurement of facility management, which was supported by public and private sector organisations and can be downloaded here.