"Objectivity, diligence, and independence are the fundamental values for the success of our work," states the homepage of the real estate offices that Ines Roos runs together with her husband in Osnabrück and Bielefeld. For five years, the 58-year-old has been a publicly appointed and sworn expert for developed and undeveloped properties. These values have always been the guiding principles of her work as a trained specialist in real estate and housing management. Since her public appointment and swearing-in by the IHK Osnabrück – Emsland – Grafschaft Bentheim, they are not only a promise but a quality guarantee for her clients.

Certified Expertise Since 1871

© IfS

The expert system in Germany has a long-standing tradition. As early as the 19th century, private steam boiler inspection associations ensured the safety and reliability of the facilities. The establishment of the German Empire in 1871 marked the birth of public appointments of experts by independent specialists.

"Since the 1960s, the number of legal proceedings has increased, and experts for court cases were increasingly needed," says Bernhard Floter, managing board member of the Institute for Expert Systems (IfS). A focus of the association, founded 50 years ago, is preparing experts for the court environment. Around 180 institutions from all areas of expertise are members of the association, including all German Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

The IHKs conduct the public appointment and swearing-in of experts according to uniform standards. "Certain legal prerequisites must exist; however, rigid rules for assessing the special expertise as one important prerequisite do not apply," emphasizes Axel Rickert, head of the expert department at the DIHK. Special expertise can be demonstrated in various ways, according to the lawyer. There is also some leeway concerning the duration of practical experience. "The title is a quality seal to identify highly qualified experts," sums up Bernhard Floter from IfS.

At Court, in Private Matters, …

Those publicly appointed and sworn in as experts can work comprehensively in this field – both in court and outside of it. In specific areas, publicly appointed and sworn experts are sought-after specialists for inspection tasks. "When it comes to compliance with the Federal Emission Control Act or whether companies are environmentally disposing of used vehicles, private experts rather than state authorities conduct inspections," explains Floter. Public appointment and swearing-in are often prerequisites for this activity.

… Or in Dispute Resolution

Another field of activity that is gaining importance is out-of-court dispute resolution. Here, publicly appointed and sworn experts act as neutral specialists, mediators, or arbitrators.

"In the judicial field, it is important for publicly appointed and sworn experts to be determined in proceedings to enable courts to work efficiently," emphasizes business economist Bernhard Floter. This way, the court does not have to examine the qualification itself, saving time. "Also, comprehensible and neutral assessments ensure a certain speed in processes."

Hundreds of Thousands of Assessments and Opinions

According to research by the IfS, around 800,000 to 900,000 expert services for courts are conducted annually in Germany, including assessments and opinions. "Half of these are assessments by doctors and psychiatrists; the other half are assessments by publicly appointed and sworn experts of the IHKs, chambers of crafts, and other professional chambers," says Floter.

At the beginning of 2024, the IHKs' directory listed approximately 7,800 publicly appointed and sworn experts, while the chambers of crafts listed 6,000. "This is ten to twelve percent less than five years ago," notes the IfS expert. "Currently, it can take up to a year for construction assessments and accident reconstruction assessments to be available. This is unsatisfactory! Overlong proceedings are a risk for the judiciary and also for Germany's economic location."

Young Talent Urgently Needed

Demographic change and the shortage of skilled workers also affect the expert system. Currently, the average age of experts is 60 years. In the coming years, many baby boomers will retire. Young specialists from all fields should now seize the opportunity and consider a career or a second foothold as publicly appointed and sworn experts.

High Appreciation for Expertise and Neutrality

Real estate expert Ines Roos has never regretted her career step. As a "Diploma Expert (DIA) for the valuation of developed and undeveloped properties, rents, and leases as well as loan value determination," she had already conducted numerous assessments. With the public appointment and swearing-in came more and more interesting assignments. "The circle of my clients has expanded," summarizes Ines Roos. Everyone appreciates her expertise and neutrality.

"With the responsibility of being the extended arm of the court comes great appreciation for my work," describes the 58-year-old. If a judge is satisfied with her work, he often recommends her further. Diligent work and thorough research are in her nature. Her assessments average 40 to 60 pages. "I have to be able to justify everything and always be up to date," says Roos. Regular training is mandatory – and a welcome opportunity to exchange ideas with other specialists. Even the best of the best benefit from a strong network, knows Roos, who is also a regional leader in the Association of German Women Entrepreneurs.

Flexible Work and Adequate Income

In addition to appreciation, variety, and professional challenges, real estate expert Roos is also enthusiastic about two other aspects of her work: "I can freely arrange my working hours and am very flexible. Additionally, I generate an adequate income through the additional qualification. This creates financial independence well into old age." Expertise pays off in many ways.