Experienced surveyor appointed by Principle as repairs planning brought in-house

He had previously worked as a chartered surveyor at Gleeds and Cushman & Wakefield, following his initial training to become a member of the RICS at Lambert Smith Hampton.

Joe Jobson, a director at Principle, said that the business now had four chartered surveyors, which was unusual for a block management business.

Mr Jobson said: “As a business we are really excited by Richard’s appointment. He will oversee a new department which will bring a number of key functions in-house.

“This will give us the ability to complete long term maintenance plans and oversee major works in-house, giving us much greater control as we will prioritise these tasks internally rather than being reliant on external partners.

“It is a demonstration of the success we have had over the last few years that we are able to bring such a service in-house.

“We continue to grow a pipeline of business and it is vital that we continue to invest operationally to ensure we provide the best service to our customers, which this appointment clearly demonstrates.”

Mr Coles, who as well as being a member of RICS has a Master’s degree in Building Surveying from Nottingham Trent University, said he was delighted to be joining Principle.

He said: “I have worked for a number of large commercial property operators but I am really excited to be joining Principle, which is a quickly expanding business.

“The brief to build this department and provide valuable support to the property managers was too good to turndown.

“As I get my feet under the table I know I can make a real difference, providing valuable assistance to the property managers.”

Principle, which is led by experienced chartered surveyors, is a full and active member of the Association of Residential Managing Agents.

It now has more than 35 staff looking after a portfolio of more than 7,000 units in 250-plus developments across the UK.