Introduction
In the world of architecture, property management, and building conservation, few names carry the quiet authority and respect that Richard Fairs does. Known primarily for his work as a Chartered Building Surveyor and founder of The Building Consultancy Ltd in Bristol, Fairs has built a career grounded in expertise, professionalism, and a deep understanding of the built environment.
Though not a celebrity by trade, Fairs has recently drawn public interest due to his private life, particularly his relationship and later marriage to British comedian and actress Miranda Hart. Yet behind this media curiosity lies a man defined far more by his professional achievements, discipline, and long-standing commitment to quality surveying practice than by public attention.
This article explores the full story of Richard Fairs—his early life, education, career milestones, personal philosophy, and professional impact—offering a complete picture of one of Britain’s most experienced and discreet property consultants.
Early Life and Education
Early Foundations
Born in February 1964, Richard William Fairs grew up in the United Kingdom during a time when urban development and architectural modernization were shaping the future of British cities. From an early age, Fairs demonstrated a keen interest in the technical and aesthetic aspects of buildings—a fascination that would later evolve into a lifelong profession.
Though limited public data exists about his childhood or family background, his career trajectory suggests a man who combined practical curiosity with a disciplined work ethic, likely influenced by early exposure to property, construction, or engineering environments.
Academic Pursuits
Fairs pursued higher education in Building Surveying, a field that bridges the technical and managerial aspects of real estate and construction. He studied at Thames Polytechnic, now known as the University of Greenwich, where he earned his surveying degree with commendation. His education grounded him in construction technology, building pathology, and property law—skills essential for the analytical precision required of surveyors.
After years of rigorous study and practical training, Fairs achieved his professional qualification as a Chartered Building Surveyor (MRICS) in 1989, marking the official beginning of his professional journey.
Career Beginnings and Growth
Early Professional Experience
Richard Fairs began his surveying career in 1982, starting as a trainee in Watford before moving into London’s dynamic property sector. His early career saw him working for respected firms such as Hogben Smith Barritt and J Trevor & Sons, where he developed a reputation for reliability, technical skill, and detailed building analysis.
These early years were instrumental in shaping his professional philosophy—combining the precision of technical surveying with the human element of client-centered service. By the early 1990s, Fairs had already earned recognition for his practical approach and was trusted with increasing responsibility.
Move to Bristol and Senior Roles
In 1992, Fairs relocated to Bristol, where he took on a leadership role in J Trevor & Webster, managing the South West Building Consultancy Department. This move marked a turning point in his career, allowing him to apply his London experience in a regional context while leading a team and overseeing complex projects across the South West of England.
His work during this period involved commercial property inspection, condition reporting, refurbishment oversight, and client advisory services—core areas that would later define his independent practice.
The Founding of The Building Consultancy Ltd
A Vision for Independent Practice
In 1997, after more than a decade in the corporate sector, Richard Fairs decided to establish his own firm, The Building Consultancy Ltd, headquartered in Bristol. His motivation was clear: to provide a bespoke, responsive, and highly professional surveying service free from the bureaucracy of large commercial consultancies.
From the outset, the company positioned itself as “small but perfectly formed”—a boutique consultancy offering personalized solutions to clients ranging from property investors and developers to private homeowners and heritage custodians.
The Building Consultancy quickly built a reputation for its technical accuracy, transparency, and attention to client needs. Fairs’s philosophy emphasized flexibility, integrity, and long-term relationships, values that would set his firm apart in an industry often dominated by larger, less personal organizations.
Services and Specializations
Under Fairs’s leadership, The Building Consultancy Ltd became known for a wide range of services, including:
- Building Condition Surveys
Detailed assessments of property structure, maintenance, and repair needs. - Dilapidation and Lease Advice
Expert guidance for landlords and tenants in resolving lease-end obligations. - Building Defect Analysis
Investigating and advising on issues like damp, cracking, subsidence, and deterioration. - Conservation and Heritage Building Consultancy
Specialized expertise in preserving and restoring historic structures while maintaining compliance with conservation standards. - Project Management and Refurbishment Oversight
Ensuring that property refurbishments are conducted efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively.
Over time, The Building Consultancy earned RICS Regulation, reflecting its adherence to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors’ strict professional standards—a hallmark of quality and ethics in the surveying profession.
Professional Philosophy and Reputation
Precision, Integrity, and Accessibility
Richard Fairs’s career is distinguished by a simple yet powerful professional ethos: do the job right, with honesty and expertise. He believes that building consultancy is as much about human relationships as it is about technical skill. His firm’s small-team structure allows clients to receive direct attention from senior professionals, ensuring accuracy and accountability at every stage.
This philosophy has resonated with clients across sectors, from private homeowners to major property stakeholders. Fairs’s approach has been described as practical, detail-oriented, and quietly confident—a refreshing alternative to the impersonal style of larger consultancies.
Commitment to Heritage and Sustainability
Another defining feature of Fairs’s work is his dedication to the conservation of heritage properties. In cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter—where centuries-old architecture coexists with modern development—his balanced approach helps clients maintain historic integrity while ensuring structural soundness and sustainability.
By blending traditional surveying skills with contemporary environmental awareness, Fairs exemplifies how old and new can coexist in modern British architecture.
Personal Life and Media Attention
Marriage to Miranda Hart
Though Richard Fairs spent decades maintaining a low public profile, his name began appearing in mainstream media in 2023 when it was revealed that he had married Miranda Hart, the beloved British comedian, actress, and author known for her sitcom Miranda and roles in Call the Midwife and Spy.
According to various reports, the two met during the COVID-19 lockdown when Fairs was called to assess a building issue at Hart’s London property. Their professional meeting evolved into a personal connection grounded in shared values of humor, kindness, and privacy.
The couple reportedly married in a private ceremony in Hampshire, attended by close family and friends. True to both their personalities, the event was described as simple, meaningful, and free from celebrity spectacle.
Private by Nature
Despite the media interest surrounding their relationship, both Fairs and Hart have made deliberate efforts to keep their personal life out of the public eye. Fairs, in particular, is known for his reserved nature, preferring professional accomplishments to speak for themselves.
He is also believed to have two children from a previous relationship, though details about his family life remain largely undisclosed.
Fairs’s ability to maintain privacy in an era of relentless media attention has only strengthened public respect for his professionalism and discretion.
Leadership and Influence
Mentorship and Professional Example
As a veteran surveyor with more than 40 years of experience, Richard Fairs serves as a model for younger professionals entering the field. His career exemplifies the value of technical competence, ethical practice, and adaptability.
Through his company, he has helped train and mentor aspiring surveyors, encouraging them to prioritize honesty, continuous learning, and client satisfaction over mere commercial gain.
Industry Reputation
Within professional circles, Fairs is admired for his steady, methodical approach to property consultancy. He is considered a trusted authority in condition surveys, building pathology, and heritage building advice.
His clients describe him as approachable yet rigorous, with an exceptional eye for detail and a deep understanding of the long-term lifecycle of buildings.
The Legacy of The Building Consultancy Ltd
Over more than two decades, The Building Consultancy Ltd has become a respected fixture in the South West England property landscape. Its longevity and success speak to the enduring value of expertise and reputation in an increasingly competitive industry.
From small private surveys to large commercial inspections, the firm’s portfolio reflects a balance of technical mastery and personal service—an ethos instilled directly by Fairs himself.
Even as the property and construction sectors evolve with new technologies such as digital twins, drone surveys, and AI-based defect detection, Fairs continues to emphasize human insight and professional judgment—qualities that technology cannot replace.
Personal Traits and Public Perception
Those who know or work with Richard Fairs often describe him as measured, reliable, and quietly intelligent. He avoids sensationalism, focusing instead on the substance of his craft. His professional demeanor is complemented by a sense of humor and humility, qualities that align naturally with his wife’s public persona.
Colleagues note his preference for understated excellence—producing results without the need for grandstanding. This subtle strength has made him both respected and trusted among peers and clients alike.
Challenges and Modern Realities
Like many professionals in the construction and property sector, Fairs has navigated challenges including economic fluctuations, changes in property legislation, and increasing sustainability demands.
However, his ability to adapt to these changes—while preserving the traditional values of integrity and diligence—illustrates his strength as both a leader and a craftsman of his trade.
His story serves as a reminder that in every successful project lies not only technical know-how but also human commitment, foresight, and respect for the built environment.
Conclusion
Richard Fairs stands as a remarkable example of a professional who has mastered the art of quiet excellence. His life’s work—spanning more than four decades—demonstrates that genuine success in any field comes not from fame, but from consistency, skill, and integrity.
As the founder of The Building Consultancy Ltd, Fairs has contributed significantly to the preservation and advancement of Britain’s architectural heritage. His steady leadership, professional ethics, and deep respect for buildings—old and new—reflect the timeless values that keep the surveying profession alive and relevant.
While his marriage to Miranda Hart has drawn occasional public curiosity, it is ultimately his dedication to his craft, his clients, and his principles that defines his legacy. In an age of fleeting notoriety, Richard Fairs reminds us that there is enduring value in quiet professionalism and the pursuit of excellence for its own sake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Richard Fairs?
Richard Fairs is a British Chartered Building Surveyor and founder of The Building Consultancy Ltd, a Bristol-based firm specializing in building surveys, property consultancy, and conservation. He is also known as the husband of actress and comedian Miranda Hart.
What does Richard Fairs’s company specialize in?
His firm offers professional surveying services including building condition reports, defect analysis, leasehold and dilapidation advice, and consultancy for heritage property restoration and refurbishment.
When did Richard Fairs become a Chartered Surveyor?
He qualified as a Chartered Building Surveyor in 1989, earning membership in the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
How did Richard Fairs meet Miranda Hart?
Reports suggest the two met during the COVID-19 lockdown when Fairs was called to inspect a building issue at Hart’s home. Their professional interaction eventually developed into a personal relationship.
Is Richard Fairs active in public or media life?
No. Richard Fairs maintains a private lifestyle, focusing on his career and personal life away from public attention. He is known for his professionalism and discretion rather than media presence.
