Richard Fairs is a distinguished British chartered building surveyor, heritage conservation specialist, and founder of The Building Consultancy Ltd in Bristol, United Kingdom. Known for his technical expertise and understated professionalism, he has built a career grounded in precision, trust, and integrity. Although he spent decades working quietly behind the scenes of Britain’s built environment, his name reached public prominence when it became known that he had married the beloved comedian and actress Miranda Hart. Despite this unexpected media attention, Richard Fairs remains a consummate professional whose life story reflects consistency, craftsmanship, and quiet excellence. His journey from a trainee surveyor to a respected authority in building conservation reveals how dedication to one’s craft can create a lasting impact that transcends fame.
In this article, we explore the complete story of Richard Fairs — his early life, education, career achievements, marriage, and the values that define his enduring legacy.
Details Summary: Richard Fairs
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Richard William Fairs |
| Date of Birth | February 1964 |
| Nationality | British |
| Profession | Chartered Building Surveyor, Heritage Conservation Expert |
| Known For | Founder of The Building Consultancy Ltd and Husband of British Comedian Miranda Hart |
| Company | The Building Consultancy Ltd, Bristol, UK |
| Education | BSc Building Surveying – Thames Polytechnic (University of Greenwich); Diploma in Building Conservation – College of Estate Management |
| Professional Membership | Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS) |
| Experience | Over 40 Years in Building Surveying and Property Consultancy |
| Specialization | Heritage Building Conservation, Dilapidation Reports, Adaptive Reuse, Property Diagnostics |
| Spouse | Miranda Hart (married July 6, 2023) |
| Children | Two (from previous marriage) |
| Residence | Bristol, United Kingdom |
| Notable Traits | Integrity, Precision, Modesty, Professional Excellence |
| Years Active | 1982 – Present |
Early Life and Education
Born in February 1964 in the United Kingdom, Richard Fairs grew up with a natural curiosity for how structures were built and how they could be preserved for generations. From a young age, he was fascinated by architecture, heritage, and the intricate details of buildings that stood the test of time. This deep interest in craftsmanship shaped his academic and professional pursuits. In 1982, he began his career as a trainee surveyor at Rumball Sedgwick in Watford, where he gained hands-on experience in property inspections, structural assessments, and restoration techniques. His early exposure to real-world surveying laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to technical excellence. He went on to earn a BSc in Building Surveying from Thames Polytechnic (now the University of Greenwich) in 1987, graduating with commendation for his academic performance. Two years later, in 1989, he achieved chartered status as a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), a mark of professional credibility. In 2004, he further specialized by earning a Diploma in Building Conservation from the College of Estate Management, allowing him to focus on heritage properties and the adaptive reuse of historic structures. His educational journey demonstrates a blend of practical learning and academic mastery — qualities that have remained central to his professional ethos.
Early Career Foundations
Following his qualification, Richard Fairs built his early career through positions at respected London-based firms such as Hogben Smith Barritt and J Trevor & Sons in the West End. These formative years exposed him to a wide range of projects — from contemporary office spaces to centuries-old cottages in rural England. His attention to detail and reliability quickly established him as a trusted figure in the surveying community. By the mid-1990s, his reputation for accuracy, honesty, and practical solutions was well recognized. Richard’s approach went beyond mere structural assessment; he was known for understanding the soul of a building — how to maintain its integrity while making it functional for modern use. His growing expertise in defect analysis, restoration management, and conservation consultancy positioned him for the next major chapter of his career — creating a firm that embodied his professional values.
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Founding The Building Consultancy Ltd (Bristol)
In 1997, Richard Fairs founded The Building Consultancy Ltd in Bristol with the goal of delivering high-quality, transparent, and personalized surveying services. He wanted to offer clients a trusted partnership rather than impersonal corporate transactions. The firm quickly developed a strong reputation for its precision and ethics. Its services include building condition surveys, dilapidation assessments, lease advisory work, defect diagnosis, and heritage conservation. Under Richard’s leadership, The Building Consultancy became known for its honesty, technical thoroughness, and focus on long-term solutions. Unlike larger consultancies that prioritize volume, his company thrives on referrals and repeat clients — a testament to trust built over time. Richard personally oversees many projects, ensuring that clients receive practical, cost-conscious, and sustainable advice. Today, his firm is regarded as a respected authority on heritage buildings across southern England, reflecting decades of consistent professional excellence.
Professional Expertise and Reputation
With more than forty years of experience, Richard Fairs is widely respected within the British property industry. As a RICS chartered surveyor, he upholds the institution’s strict ethical and technical standards. His specialization in heritage and conservation makes him an expert in preserving Britain’s architectural legacy. Richard’s work often involves adaptive reuse — the art of repurposing historic buildings for modern living and commercial use while preserving their original character. His technical reports are known for clarity and reliability, providing clients with solutions that balance preservation, practicality, and sustainability. Beyond client work, Richard has mentored young surveyors, sharing his wealth of knowledge and reinforcing the importance of integrity within the profession. His reputation extends beyond his business — he is admired as a voice of reason, honesty, and craftsmanship in an industry that increasingly values speed over substance.
Personal Life and First Marriage
Before coming into public attention, Richard Fairs led a quiet and private life. He was married to Jeanne Speight for more than twenty-five years, and the couple raised two children together. Their marriage, though private, was described as stable and grounded, reflecting his commitment to family life. The relationship eventually ended around 2017, but sources suggest that the separation was amicable and characterized by mutual respect. Throughout this time, Richard maintained focus on his professional responsibilities and his role as a devoted father. This first marriage illustrates the steadiness that defines both his personal and professional life — reliability, care, and integrity.
Meeting Miranda Hart
In 2020, during the COVID-19 lockdowns, Richard Fairs met British comedian and actress Miranda Hart under unlikely circumstances. He was called to inspect her London home for a mould problem, and what began as a professional service evolved into friendship and eventually love. Miranda later referred to him fondly as “the Mould Man” in her memoir, highlighting the humor and serendipity of their first meeting. Their relationship blossomed naturally, marked by shared laughter, understanding, and authenticity. Their first date was simple — pizza at home and long conversation — reflecting the unpretentious connection they shared.
Who Is Miranda Hart?
Miranda Hart is a British comedian, actress, and writer best known for her hit BBC sitcom Miranda, which showcased her signature mix of physical comedy, self-deprecating humor, and heartfelt storytelling. Born on December 14, 1972, in Torquay, England, she has also starred in acclaimed shows like Call the Midwife and films such as Spy alongside Melissa McCarthy.
Beyond her screen work, Miranda Hart is a successful author and stand-up performer whose warmth, wit, and authenticity have earned her a devoted fanbase. Her openness about life’s challenges and her joyful sense of humor make her one of Britain’s most loved entertainers — and, more recently, she’s known for her marriage to Richard Fairs, the respected Bristol-based chartered building surveyor.
Engagement and Marriage
In January 2023, Richard proposed to Miranda Hart at Kew Gardens in London, choosing a quiet, meaningful setting surrounded by nature. They married on July 6, 2023, at St Peter and St Paul Church in Hambledon, Hampshire, in an intimate ceremony attended by family and close friends. The celebration reflected their shared love of humor and joy, featuring a lighthearted Hawaiian theme and relaxed atmosphere. Although some reports mistakenly list 2024 as the wedding year, 2023 has been confirmed as accurate. Their union symbolized a fresh start — two individuals who had both found love later in life and who valued sincerity over spectacle.
Partnership and Support
Miranda Hart has been open about her ongoing struggles with chronic fatigue syndrome and Lyme disease, which at times have limited her ability to work. Throughout these challenges, Richard Fairs has been a steady, supportive presence. Friends describe him as calm, patient, and devoted — qualities that perfectly balance Miranda’s creative energy and humor. Their relationship is built on deep friendship, mutual respect, and shared values. Public admiration for the couple often centers not on celebrity glamour but on the authenticity of their partnership. Together, they exemplify resilience, compassion, and balance.
Public Attention and Media Coverage
Following news of their marriage, Richard Fairs briefly entered the media spotlight as the “quiet surveyor” who married a national comedy icon. Headlines emphasized the contrast between his low-profile professional life and Hart’s fame. Despite public curiosity, he has remained private, declining social media and interviews. The coverage has been overwhelmingly positive, focusing on his reputation for professionalism, humility, and grounded living. Unlike many public figures, he has managed to maintain dignity amid attention — a testament to his lifelong preference for discretion over display.
Professional Achievements and Influence
Across four decades, Richard Fairs has completed hundreds of property surveys, conservation projects, and building restorations. His firm’s work has contributed to the sustainable preservation of historic architecture throughout southern England. As founder and managing director of The Building Consultancy Ltd, he has cultivated a culture of honesty, mentorship, and excellence. He continues to advocate for adaptive reuse, energy-efficient conservation, and heritage sustainability. His influence extends through the generations of surveyors he has trained and inspired.
Key achievements include:
- Founding The Building Consultancy Ltd (1997)
- Over 40 years in the UK property industry
- Specialist diploma in Building Conservation (2004)
- Recognized authority on heritage property maintenance
- Mentorship of future surveyors and conservation professionals
Challenges and Personal Growth
Transitioning from professional anonymity to public visibility brought challenges for Richard Fairs. Managing privacy while being associated with a celebrity required adaptability and emotional intelligence. However, his steady nature and disciplined mindset have allowed him to navigate fame without compromising his values. Decades in the construction industry also taught him resilience — how to deal with difficult clients, unpredictable building conditions, and evolving regulations — all while maintaining ethical integrity. His journey underscores the strength of quiet confidence and the importance of staying true to one’s principles.
Core Values and Professional Philosophy
At the core of Richard Fairs’ philosophy is a commitment to integrity, technical excellence, and transparency. He believes that professional credibility is earned through honesty and accuracy, not self-promotion. His work emphasizes realistic, cost-effective solutions rather than theoretical promises. In conservation, he advocates for treating heritage buildings as living entities that must evolve sensitively with time. Sustainability and practicality are cornerstones of his approach. This balanced perspective — blending preservation with innovation — has earned him lasting respect among peers and clients alike.
Personality and Public Image
Those who know Richard Fairs describe him as modest, thoughtful, and meticulous. He values precision in both his work and communication. While Miranda Hart is known for her wit and charisma, Richard complements her with composure and quiet humor. Together, they embody harmony between creativity and steadiness. The media often portrays him as a refreshing figure — someone who remains authentic in a world obsessed with attention. His calm demeanor and strong moral compass have made him a role model for professionals who value integrity over image.
Lessons and Takeaways
The life of Richard Fairs offers powerful lessons for anyone pursuing success with integrity. His journey shows that excellence is not built overnight but through consistent effort and ethical practice. For aspiring surveyors, he represents the ideal combination of technical mastery and human understanding. His personal story — finding love later in life and remaining humble amid fame — reminds us that fulfillment is measured by relationships and purpose, not public recognition. In both work and life, he demonstrates that quiet diligence often builds the strongest foundations.
Legacy and Continuing Work
As of 2025, Richard Fairs continues to lead The Building Consultancy Ltd with the same dedication that has defined his career. He remains active in heritage conservation, advising property owners, landlords, and developers on responsible building care. His influence is visible not only in preserved structures but also in the culture of professionalism he promotes. Through mentorship, he ensures that future generations uphold the same standards of quality and ethics. His legacy lies in the countless buildings made safer, stronger, and more sustainable because of his expertise.
Conclusion
In a world captivated by celebrity culture, Richard Fairs stands out as a figure of quiet achievement and enduring professionalism. From his beginnings as a trainee surveyor in the 1980s to his current role as a leading authority in building conservation, he has lived a life defined by precision, honesty, and purpose. His marriage to Miranda Hart has brought his name to a wider audience, yet his true legacy lies in his work — the buildings preserved, the careers inspired, and the values exemplified. Richard Fairs proves that real success doesn’t require applause; it is built on integrity, one project and one act of care at a time.
FAQs
1. Who is Richard Fairs?
Richard Fairs is a highly respected British chartered building surveyor and the founder of The Building Consultancy Ltd, based in Bristol, United Kingdom. With more than four decades of experience in building diagnostics, conservation, and property consultancy, he is known for his professionalism, honesty, and precision. He became more widely recognized after marrying British comedian and actress Miranda Hart, though his career achievements stand firmly on their own merit.
2. What does The Building Consultancy Ltd do?
The Building Consultancy Ltd, founded by Richard Fairs in 1997, provides expert building surveying and property consultancy services to clients across southern England. The firm specializes in building condition surveys, dilapidation assessments, leasehold advice, heritage conservation, and defect analysis. It operates with a focus on integrity, transparency, and long-term trust, offering practical solutions rather than theoretical recommendations.
3. How did Richard Fairs meet Miranda Hart?
Richard Fairs met Miranda Hart during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, when he was called to inspect her London home for a mould issue. What began as a professional service turned into friendly conversation and later blossomed into a romantic relationship. Miranda affectionately refers to him as the “Mould Man,” referencing the unusual but charming way they met. Their connection grew from genuine friendship, humor, and shared values.
4. When did Richard Fairs and Miranda Hart get married?
The couple married on July 6, 2023, at St Peter and St Paul Church in Hambledon, Hampshire, in a private ceremony attended by close family and friends. The celebration reflected their shared humor and simplicity, with a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. Although some reports mentioned 2024 as the wedding year, most reliable sources confirm that their marriage took place in 2023.
5. What is Richard Fairs known for professionally?
Professionally, Richard Fairs is known for his expertise in heritage building conservation, adaptive reuse, and practical surveying solutions. As a long-standing member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), he is admired for his ethical approach, technical precision, and client-focused service. His career highlights include mentoring younger professionals, leading numerous historic restoration projects, and maintaining one of the most respected small surveying practices in Bristol.
