The role and importance of quantity surveyors in construction projects

Homeowners and investors in the UK and Australia are more familiar with the profession of Quantity Surveyor and Quantity Surveying, while those living in the USA and Canada are probably familiar with the terms Construction Cost Estimator and Construction Cost Estimating. Still, is there a difference between these two job titles?  Sometimes surveyor roles change depending on the region in which they operate. Generally, a Quantity Surveyor in the UK is equivalent to a Cost Estimator in the USA. However, a Cost Estimator in the UK will have fewer requirements and tasks than a licenced QS in the same region. Basically, in the UK, Cost Estimating is just one of the roles of Quantity Surveying. Related: CSCS Labourer Card: 1 Day Course & Level 1 Exam

Roles at glance

In general terms, a Quantity Surveyor manages all costs related to building and civil engineering projects, from initial calculations to the end figure. Employed either by a client or the contractor, working from an office or on-site, the Quantity Surveyor is involved in a project from start to finish. Often working closely with other specialists on the site, it's the job of the Quantity Surveyor to minimise the cost of a project and enhance the value for money, while still achieving the regulated standards of quality, including the statutory building regulations. A QS's office prepares estimates and costs of the work and when the project gets underway, keeps track of any variations to the contract that may affect costs and profitability.

Job responsibilities

From the project start, the Quantity Surveyor prepares tender and contract documentation, including bills of quantities with the architect or the client. They also perform cost analysis for repair and maintenance, as well as assist in meeting client's requirements, and undertake feasibility studies. Risk, value, and cost management also fall under their purview, and they are expected to identify, analyse, and develop responses to commercial risks. Apart from allocating work to subcontractors and providing advice on contractual claims, Quantity Surveyors analyse outcomes and compile detailed progress reports. Finally, they evaluate completed work and arrange payments. Although they are mainly employed on large construction projects, experienced Quantity Surveyors may also provide services for individual homeowners such as helping with building insurance valuation or tax depreciation schedules. Related: CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test (CSCS Test)

Career opportunities

The profession of Quantity Surveying is internationally recognised and in demand all over the world. Many larger consultant firms and contractors you could find yourself working for in the UK have offices in Ireland, Europe, Middle East and the Americas, and it's not uncommon for staff to transfer and make the most of the perks and life experience that comes from working abroad. Furthermore, the profession of a QS commands a healthy salary comparative with the cost of living in each of these countries, allowing you to maintain the standard of living you've become accustomed to before transferring. The ability to travel also ensures there's always work for Quantity Surveyors irrespective of the cycle of the economy in the UK.

A profession still in demand

The UK's post-recession construction industry still experiences a dire shortage of Quantity Surveyors. According to the latest survey by the Royal Institute of Certified Surveyors (RICS) that covered the Q4 period of 2017, it's clear that 60% of surveyors continue to have labour shortages, which along the financial constraints and planning delays contributes to constricted growth. A similar result to the RICS survey revealed that 41% of respondents were struggling to recruit people to fill the Quantity Surveyor role. With many of existing Surveyors reaching retirement, the impact on the construction market can be avoided only if this area of the industry is made more lucrative to young people and kept in pace with the rest of the digital world. From early design costs to final figures, a Quantity Surveyor's role is to manage the costs related to building and engineering projects such as new builds, renovations and maintenance work. They enhance the project's value for the money, while, making sure it meets all legal and industrial standards and requirements. Guest Post: Mike Johnston is a Sydney based home improvement blogger, DIY enthusiast and resident sustainability buff. He is a regular writer at Smooth Decorator and contributor on several interior design and eco blogs.