Insurance risk surveyor

You would check buildings, machinery and other possessions that people want to protect with insurance. You’d spot issues that that could be a potential danger and explain to people how to make things safer.

You could do surveys of buildings, machinery, transport and other sites or items that need to be insured. You’d then report back to insurance underwriters who would then decide how much to charge for the insurance policy, and the terms and conditions of the policy.

You would normally assess the risks related to one of these specialised areas:

• Fire and perils – examine plans, construction and fire protection systems

• Accidents and liability – find possible risks to employees, customers and visitors on a building or site

• Engineering insurance – look for faults and risks in mechanical and industrial plants, machinery and equipment

• Burglary and theft – inspect business premises to check security and storage methods

In all these areas you explain the issues clearly to people who are not experts, and persuade them that it would be better to make some changes. You’d make sure that the companies understand the risks and have put in place a plan to manage the risks. You would make sure that they have introduced good health and safety procedures.

You would usually work for general insurance companies, brokers, firms of specialist surveyors or local authorities.

• Chartered Insurance Institute - professional body for the global financial services profession