A quantity surveyor manages all costs relating to
building and civil engineering projects, from the
initial calculations to the final figures.
Surveyors seek to minimize the costs of a project
and enhance value for money, while still achieving
the required standards and quality. Many of these
are specified by statutory building regulations,
which the surveyor needs to understand and
adhere to.
A quantity surveyor may work for either the client
or the contractor, working in an office or on site.
They are involved in a project from the start,
preparing estimates and costs of the work.
When the project is in progress, quantity
surveyors keep track of any variations to the
contract that may affect costs and create reports
to show profitability.
Typical work activities
Preparing tender and contract documents,
including bills of quantities with the architect
and/or the client.
Undertaking cost analysis for repair and
maintenance project work.
Assisting in establishing a client's requirements
and undertaking feasibility studies.
Performing risk, value management and cost
control.
Advising on procurement strategy.
Identifying, analyzing and developing responses
to commercial risks.
Preparing and analyzing costing’s for tenders.
Allocating work to subcontractors.
Providing advice on contractual claims.
Analyzing outcomes and writing detailed progress
reports.
Valuing completed work and arranging payments.
Maintaining awareness of the different building
contracts in current use.
Understanding the implications of health and safety
regulations.
