Neal graduated with a Degree in Building Surveying from University of Greenwich in 1994.

During his time University of Greenwich on a full time study basis Neal worked for Haywards Building Consultancy which initially formed part of Erinaceous Plc.

During his many years at Haywards Neal was actively involved in several complicated and interesting projects, notably the rehabilitation of several large local authority housing estates under the Government "Decent Homes" Scheme, these works requiring compliance with particularly detailed client requirements in respect of cost control, reporting and procedure.

Neal moved within the organisation and has been responsible for the specification, procurement and administration of numerous refurbishment and repair projects of high value Central London apartment buildings for Blue Chip clients. Additionally he as experience in party wall, dilapidations and defects investigation works.