Richard Fairs is a respected British building surveyor whose name popped up in headlines thanks to his marriage to beloved comedian Miranda Hart. While he’s built a solid career preserving historic buildings and running his own consultancy, his personal story, especially how he met and married Hart, adds a touch of romance that fans can’t get enough of. In this Richard Fairs biography and net worth overview, we’ll dive into what makes this down-to-earth professional so intriguing.
Key Points:
- Research suggests Richard Fairs has made his mark in the property world through expertise and quiet dedication, though public attention came later via his high-profile marriage.
- It seems likely that his story highlights how everyday professionals can find unexpected fame, with no major controversies surrounding him.
- The evidence leans toward viewing him as a supportive partner and skilled specialist, appreciated by those in his field and beyond.
Who Is Richard Fairs?
He’s a chartered building surveyor based in Bristol, known for his work in heritage conservation. Fairs gained wider recognition after tying the knot with Miranda Hart, the star of her self-titled sitcom and other hits. What stands out is his grounded approach: he focuses on practical solutions for buildings, much like he brings stability to his personal relationships.
Why He’s in the Spotlight
Fairs isn’t your typical celebrity, but his connection to Hart has sparked interest. Fans love the fairy-tale element of their meeting during a home repair job. This blend of professional success and personal happiness makes him relatable, especially for those curious about life behind the scenes of fame.
When you think of celebrities, building surveyors might not come to mind first. But Richard Fairs has carved out a unique spot in the public eye, blending a steady career in property conservation with a heartwarming personal life tied to one of Britain’s favorite comedians. Born in February 1964 in the United Kingdom, Fairs grew up with a fascination for structures and history, which set the stage for his professional path. Today, at 62 years old, he’s not just a expert in his field but also the husband of Miranda Hart, adding a layer of intrigue to his story. His journey shows how passion for one’s work can lead to unexpected adventures, including love found in the most ordinary circumstances.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Richard William Fairs |
| Nickname / Stage Name | “The Mould Man” or “The Boy from Bristol” (affectionately by Miranda Hart) |
| Date of Birth | February 1964 |
| Age | 62 (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | United Kingdom |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Chartered Building Surveyor, Heritage Conservation Specialist |
| Known For | Marriage to comedian Miranda Hart, expertise in building conservation |
| Height | Not publicly available |
| Family / Spouse | Married to Miranda Hart (since July 6, 2024); previously married to Jeanne Speight (ended around 2017); two children, Jack and Shula |
| Education | BSc in Building Surveying (Thames Polytechnic, 1987, with commendation); Diploma in Building Conservation (College of Estate Management, 2004) |
| Social Media Followers | None (avoids social media) |
| Estimated Net Worth | £1-5 million (estimated based on career and business ownership) |
Early Life and Background
Richard Fairs spent his childhood in the UK, where buildings and their stories caught his eye from a young age. Coming from a typical British family, he didn’t have a spotlight on him growing up. Instead, he channeled his curiosity into learning about architecture and preservation. This early interest wasn’t about glamour: it was about understanding how structures stand the test of time.
His family background remains private, but it’s clear they supported his practical pursuits. Fairs attended local schools before heading to Thames Polytechnic (now the University of Greenwich) for his degree. There, he earned a BSc in Building Surveying in 1987, graduating with commendation. He later added a Diploma in Building Conservation in 2004 from the College of Estate Management. These steps weren’t flashy, but they built a strong foundation. As a student, he juggled part-time work in surveying firms, discovering his passion for fixing and preserving properties hands-on.
Career Journey and Major Achievements
Fairs kicked off his career in 1982 as a trainee at a local surveying firm in Watford. He learned the ropes, from inspecting structures to advising on repairs. By 1989, he had qualified as a chartered building surveyor through the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), a milestone that opened doors.
Starting Out
Early on, he worked at firms like Hogben Smith Barritt and J Trevor & Sons in London. These roles involved everything from modern office assessments to restoring old cottages. Fairs honed his skills in defect diagnosis and conservation, always prioritizing honesty and practical fixes.
Breakthrough and Business Ventures
In 1997, Fairs took a bold step by founding The Building Consultancy Ltd in Bristol. This small firm focuses on personalized services: condition surveys, dilapidation reports, lease advice, and heritage planning. He chose quality over quantity, building trust with clients like property developers and landlords across southern England. His expertise in adaptive reuse, turning historic buildings into modern spaces without losing their charm, became a hallmark.
Over the years, Fairs has tackled high-profile projects, preserving Victorian, Georgian, and Edwardian structures. He’s mentored young surveyors and advocated for sustainable conservation, like adding energy-efficient features to old buildings. While he hasn’t won public awards, his RICS membership and client loyalty speak volumes. His firm stands as a testament to steady growth through integrity.
Personal Life and Relationships
Fairs values privacy, keeping his personal world away from the headlines until recently. He was married to schoolteacher Jeanne Speight for over 25 years, a union that ended amicably around 2017. Together, they raised two children: son Jack and daughter Shula. Fairs remains a devoted father, balancing family with his career.
His life took a romantic turn in 2020 during the COVID-19 lockdown. Hired to fix a mold issue at Miranda Hart’s home, their professional chat turned into something more. They bonded over pizza, laughter, and deep talks. Hart, who has openly shared her battles with Lyme disease and chronic fatigue, found a supportive partner in Fairs. He proposed at Kew Gardens in January 2023, and they wed on July 6, 2024, in a cozy ceremony at St. Peter and St. Paul Church in Hambledon, Hampshire. The event had a fun Hawaiian theme, attended by close ones.
Today, they live quietly, possibly in Hart’s Hammersmith home. Fairs plays drums in a local swing band, showing his creative side. He’s described as calm, humorous, and grounded: qualities that complement Hart’s vibrant personality. Their story is one of genuine connection, respectful of each other’s worlds.
Net Worth and Income Breakdown
Richard Fairs’ estimated net worth sits between £1 million and £5 million, based on public data and his long career. These figures are approximations, as he doesn’t flaunt finances. His wealth comes mainly from The Building Consultancy Ltd, where he’s director. Services like surveys and conservation advice generate steady income from clients in property and insurance sectors.
Other sources include consulting fees and possibly investments in real estate, given his expertise. He built this fortune through decades of hard work, starting small and growing his firm sustainably. No brand deals or social media earnings here: it’s all rooted in professional services. Remember, net worth estimates can vary, drawn from industry norms and company insights.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Fairs met his wife while on a job to remove mold, turning a home hassle into a love story.
- He’s a drummer in a Bristol swing band, adding rhythm to his structured life.
- Despite media buzz, he skips social media entirely, preferring real-life connections.
- His work has helped preserve hundreds of historic UK buildings, blending old charm with new needs.
- Hart calls him her “best friend,” highlighting their bond beyond romance.
Influence and Legacy
Richard Fairs matters because he represents the unsung heroes in specialized fields. His impact on the building industry shows through preserved heritage sites that benefit communities. By mentoring others and pushing sustainable practices, he’s shaped how we handle historic properties. On a personal level, his story with Hart inspires, proving love can bloom anywhere. In an industry often overlooked, Fairs’ quiet influence encourages integrity and balance, leaving a legacy of thoughtful preservation and genuine relationships.
“Finding love in unexpected places: How a mould problem led to a beautiful marriage.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Richard Fairs’ net worth?
His estimated net worth is between £1 million and £5 million, primarily from his surveying business. These are approximations based on public information.
How did Richard Fairs become famous?
He gained public attention through his marriage to comedian Miranda Hart in 2024, after meeting her professionally in 2020.
What are his biggest achievements?
Founding The Building Consultancy in 1997, earning chartered status in 1989, and contributing to UK heritage conservation over 40 years.
Where are they now?
Fairs and Hart live privately in the UK, with him continuing his work in Bristol and supporting her career.
Is Richard Fairs on social media?
No, he prefers to stay off platforms and maintain privacy.
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