It may come as a surprise, but even construction professionals don’t always fully understand what Quantity Surveyors truly bring to the table. And when it comes to project owners, particularly those managing smaller builds, they often view a QS as an extra expense they can skip to cut costs. However, these experts play a key role in projects big or small, from start to finish. So, what exactly do quantity surveyors do (and for that matter, don’t do)? In this post, we’ll take a closer look at their tasks, as well as clear up some misunderstandings about these essential members of a construction team.
What are Quantity Surveyors?
Let’s start with the basics: what is a quantity surveyor?
These are specialists who oversee expenses tied to building projects, from initial planning through final handover. Particularly, they look for solutions to cut expenses, boost savings, and keep the budget on track without going over.
Ultimately, a skilled quantity surveyor brings cost certainty to your project. Thanks to their involvement, you are able to reduce financial risks and confidently move forward with your project. Moreover, quantity surveyors allow you to focus on the build itself while they handle the key aspects of the monetary operations.
And now that you have a general idea of what these professionals do, let’s tackle some myths about quantity surveying.
All Quantity Surveyors Handle the Same Tasks
Actually, quantity surveyors fall into two distinct categories: contractor QS and consultant QS.
A Contractor QS focuses on the builder’s side. They estimate bids, manage subcontractor deals, track on-site costs, handle payments, etc. Overall, they protect the contractor’s financial interests and ensure project completion within the agreed parameters.
On the other hand, consultant quantity surveyors work for the project owner or developer as independent advisors. Their responsibilities include budgeting, tender reviewing, contract overseeing, and others.
Despite representing different parties of a construction project, both contribute to its cost-effectiveness and timely completion. Moreover, their collaborative relationship often prevents disputes that could potentially derail construction schedules.
You Don’t Need a QS Once Construction Begins
In reality, quantity surveyors remain actively involved at every stage of a project’s lifecycle.
At the pre-construction stage, quantity surveyors carry out estimates and forecasts to make sure your idea makes financial sense. Once you approve your project, they develop comprehensive cost plans covering materials, labour, equipment, and contingencies. At the same time, they provide procurement advice and prepare tender documents to attract competitive bids from qualified contractors.
When the construction phase is underway, a QS remains an active member of the team. Specifically, they monitor every expense against the approved budget. Among other things, this includes reviewing contractor payment applications, variation assessment, and contract administration. Throughout this period, they also identify risks that could impact the project and help mitigate them.
After construction wraps up, quantity surveyors prepare final accounts that sum up all project costs. In case of any disputes over variations or delays, they often serve as mediators or experts who help resolve conflicts.
Small Construction Projects don’t Require Quantity Surveying
Many small project owners believe they can handle quantity surveying tasks themselves. After all, how hard can it be to calculate material costs and review contractor estimates?
However, the role of a quantity surveyor goes beyond numbers and calculations. What they bring to the table is deep knowledge of construction law, contract administration, and market conditions. Besides, you can count on them when it comes to developing procurement strategies or forecasting cost implications of design changes. And as we have already pointed out above, they are indispensable during negotiations or disputes.
Last but not least, quantity surveyors bring objectivity to financial decisions. When you’re emotionally invested in your project, having an independent professional by your side can protect you from expensive mistakes.
Quantity Surveyors Always Side with Whoever Hired Them
While quantity surveyors certainly represent their clients’ interests, professional ethics require them to make objective and fair decisions.
Reputable quantity surveyors understand that long-term success depends on building trust with all project stakeholders. Therefore, they always look for solutions that benefit everyone involved. And this approach works better than blind advocacy for the client – projects tend to progress more smoothly when all parties trust the professionalism of a quantity surveyor.
Summing up, quantity surveyors bring far more value to construction projects than many people realise. Whether you’re planning a small renovation or major development, partnering with a qualified quantity surveyor such as Peja Surveying pays for itself. Improved cost control, risk mitigation, and expert guidance throughout the construction process – this is just a fraction of how we can contribute to your construction project.
