Consultant Quantity Surveyor
In the construction industry, the role of a consultant quantity surveyor (also referred to as a Professional Quantity Surveyor – PQS) is crucial for effective cost management and project success. As independent experts, they have the skills and experience to advise clients on the best ways to reduce expenditure without affecting the quality and value of the project. Along with that, they can help avoid or resolve any contractual disputes that may arise throughout the project lifecycle.
With an expert PQS on your team, you have a chance to complete each construction phase smoothly and ensure the financial health of your project. This implies, in particular, reduced costs, effective time management, as well as minimised project risks.
Consultant QS vs Contractor QS
It is essential to distinguish between a consultant quantity surveyor and a contractor quantity surveyor. While both roles involve cost management, they operate in different contexts and have distinct responsibilities.
A consultant quantity surveyor works on behalf of the client and provides independent cost advice and management throughout the project. On the other hand, a contractor quantity surveyor typically represents the contractor’s interests, focusing on managing costs related to the construction phase. Both roles are essential, but their scopes and priorities differ.
When it comes to consultant quantity surveyors, their main task is the protection of the client’s interests. In other words, they contribute to cost-effective project delivery, staying within budget, and proper contract administration. As independent advisors, they guide clients through every project stage and help them make fair, unbiased decisions about cost management.
In contrast, a contractor quantity surveyor is primarily concerned with managing costs during the construction phase. They work jointly with the contractor’s project team to monitor and control costs, prepare interim valuations, and manage subcontractor payments. Their role includes assessing variations, managing claims, and ensuring that the contractor’s financial interests are protected.
Contractor quantity surveyors are typically more involved in on-site cost management activities, whereas consultant quantity surveyors take a broader project-wide perspective.
The Functions of a Consultant Quantity Surveyor
A consultant quantity surveyor, otherwise known as Professional Quantity Surveyor or Private Practice Quantity Surveyor, undertakes a range of important functions. Their ultimate goal is to make certain that construction projects are delivered within budget and meet the required quality standards.
PQPs are independent professionals who support clients in making decisions as well as collaborate with other parties of a construction project (such as engineers, architects, contractors, etc.). Their ability to create and interpret contract documents, combined with strong teamwork skills, is indispensable to solve problems, prevent disagreements, and keep projects moving forward smoothly.
Overall, a consultant quantity surveyor performs the following key functions.
Project Cost Control
A consultant quantity surveyor ensures that project costs are managed effectively, helping the client maintain budget control throughout the project lifecycle, from inception to completion, while ensuring that resources are efficiently utilized.
Stakeholder Collaboration
They work closely with clients, architects, engineers, and contractors to streamline communication, ensuring that all parties are aligned on financial matters, minimizing potential conflicts, and keeping the project on track.
Contract Management Expertise
The consultant QS drafts, interprets, and manages contract documents to mitigate risks, resolve disputes, and uphold project standards, ensuring that contractual obligations are met fairly and accurately.
Dispute Prevention
By applying their expertise in contract and cost management, consultant QSs proactively identify potential issues, addressing them early to prevent costly disputes and delays, ensuring a smooth progression of the project.
Design Decisions and Cost Control
The client and their design team can make an impact on the capital cost of a construction project through their decisions. The best results can be achieved when they make each choice with a clear understanding of how it affects the cost and quality of a project. The task of a quantity surveyor is to provide a client with all the necessary information and assist in making informed design decisions.
Normally, quantity surveyors become fully involved in construction projects from the start. Early on, they work with architects and designers to create detailed cost plans and estimates. Their contribution to design plans involves identifying potential cost issues and suggesting money-saving alternatives. All in all, this teamwork ensures that the design meets the client’s budget and maintains the desired quality.
Cost Control and Value Management
Consultant quantity surveyors are responsible for monitoring project costs and implementing effective cost-control measures. They meticulously analyse project expenditures, track cost variations, and identify potential cost-saving opportunities. Thanks to the implementation of value management techniques (for instance, value engineering and lifecycle costing), they ensure that the project delivers maximum value to the client while maintaining cost efficiency.
During construction, consultant quantity surveyors work with project managers and contractors to keep expenses under control. Specifically, they review cost reports, assess progress against the budget, and recommend ways to avoid excessive spending. Due to these regular audits, the client has an opportunity to save money while maintaining the project’s intended purpose and quality.
Procurement, Tendering, and Contract Administration
Quantity surveyors are involved in a construction project from its conception to completion. They help with choosing and managing the procurement and tendering methods, awarding contracts, as well as the post-contract administration, including settling the final account and resolving any contractual disputes.
During the procurement phase, consultant quantity surveyors collaborate with clients to determine the most appropriate procurement method based on factors such as project complexity, time constraints, and budget considerations. They prepare tender documentation, including bills of quantities and cost estimates, as well as assist in the evaluation of tenders received. This ensures that the client selects the most suitable contractor or suppliers based on their expertise, cost competitiveness, and track record.
Once construction begins, consultant quantity surveyors support contract management. Specifically, their responsibility is to ensure all parties meet their payment obligations. At the same time, they handle variations and claims, which includes analysing change orders, assessing their cost impact, and negotiating fair settlements. When needed, a consultant QS will consult with legal experts to resolve any contract disputes arising during the project.
PEJA Surveying – Your Reputable
Consultant Quantity Surveyor
Looking for a reliable consultant quantity surveyor? PEJA Surveying is a trusted partner for construction projects of all sizes. Our team’s 40+ years of combined experience covers all aspects of cost management, from initial planning and strategic procurement to contract administration and value engineering. We understand the complexities of construction projects and are committed to delivering cost-effective solutions tailored to your needs.
With PEJA Surveying as your QS, you can be confident in receiving exceptional cost management support and ensuring the success of your construction project. You can count on us for:
At PEJA Surveying, we take a client-centred approach, prioritizing open communication, collaboration, and delivering cost-effective solutions. Our expertise extends to various sectors, including residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects. Whether you are a property developer, public agency, or private entity, PEJA Surveying is happy to provide cost management expertise to optimise your project’s financial performance.
So, if you are looking for a professional quantity surveyor for your next project, contact us today for a free consultation and quote.
