The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has produced a paper to outline the potential implications and impact that the referendum debate and further devolution of powers or independence may have on land, property and construction in Scotland.

The global organisation is the principal body representing professionals employed in the land, property and construction sectors.

In Scotland, the Institution represents over 11,800 members comprising chartered surveyors (MRICS or FRICS), Associate surveyors (AssocRICS), trainees and students. Its members practise in 16 land, property and construction markets – all of which will be impacted by independence.

Accordingly, RICS has produced this paper to outline the potential implications and impact that the referendum debate and further devolution of powers or independence may have on these sectors.

RICS said: “On 18 September 2014, Scottish residents will go to their polling stations to decide whether Scotland should remain part of the UK.

“The independence debate has seen the formation of two campaign groups – YesScotland and Better Together. As anticipated, both camps have been issuing statements and research papers advocating their respective sides of the debate, and it has become apparent that while the referendum debate has brought key issues to the fore, there are still many unanswered questions.

“At this stage, it is important to note that RICS is an organisation with a Royal Charter and, therefore, a duty to protect the interests of the public. We are committed to ensuring that our members play a positive and active role in shaping the land, property and construction sectors.

“As a consequence of its Royal Charter, RICS Scotland is in a unique position to provide a balanced, apolitical perspective on issues of importance to the land, property and construction sectors.”

Implications of Independence and Further Devolution on Land, Property and Construction in Scotland