Over 300 fake surveyors in Lanka

Shirley WIJESINGHE and Dharmasri ABEYRATNE

There are over 300 uncertified/fake surveyors in the country, Institute of Surveyors President, Keerthi Gunawardane said. Addressing a media conference at the Organization of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka Auditorium on Wednesday to inform the public how they should act without falling into the hands of unauthorized surveyors, Gunawardane said these fake surveyors have fraudulently prepared all certificates and documents and they act as licensed surveyors. Names and addresses of licensed surveyors have been published in gazette notifications and renewed every year with new additions.

The public and lawyers should find out if a surveyor is licensed before engaging them, he said.

Gunawardane criticized procedures followed by certain officers in the Local Authorities while forwarding applications of clients to the Urban Development Authority to issue development licences.

Officers of local authorities are purposely trying to delay the process by adhering to certain procedures not included in the Local Government Ordinance, he said. "We are not against any laws implemented for public benefit. But there should be clear provisions and policies to follow," he said.

He said the Institute of Surveyors urge the public to be aware of the law and regulations properly.

This is the only option available to prevent being fooled by fake surveyors, he added. The institute represents both state Sector and Private Sector comprising over 900 registered surveyors.