The Role of a Quantity Surveyor
What is a quantity surveyor? There are many ways of looking at the role of the quantity surveyor, but perhaps the most helpful definition is a professional who carefully manages construction costs before, during and after a project’s completion.
Working closely with architects and engineers, the quantity surveyor is part of the professional team that oversees a construction project from start to finish. Simply put, a quantity surveyor (QS) is a professional who manages construction costs and contracts.
Although some may joke that a QS is a person whose job it is to count bricks, the value added by the quantity surveyor is inestimable.
Value for money
Because of their specialised financial knowledge, the QS is able to manage all the costs associated with either constructing or renovating a building from the preliminary estimates to the final account. The primary role of the QS is to ensure that the client receives the best value for money, while still maintaining the highest standards.
While many clients eschew the need for a quantity surveyor, the money spent engaging one is well spent. Having a QS will save you costs in the long term – and they will help you avoid conflict by ensuring the right contracts are in place so that your contractors stay on schedule and gets paid on time.
What does a QS do?
The role of the QS varies according to each stage of the project. In the definition phase, the QS will draw up estimates and budgets. During the planning phase, they will compile feasibility studies and risk assessments. Before the project is underway, the QS will draw up bills of quantities and tender documents. Bills of quantities list in detail all construction materials needed for the project.
They will evaluate tenders and draw up contract documents for the preferred bidder and project owner to sign. Finally, when the project is delivered, the QS will prepare final accounts and settle any contractual claims.
Other services
Because their expertise is so specialised, a QS could be called on to perform other services within the construction industry. For example, they may be asked to provide a client with cash-flow predictions and cost reports. They are often involved in preparing valuations for insurance companies in the event of a fire. Their independence and experience make the QS well suited to mediate in conflict resolution regarding building contracts.
Many sectors of the economy make use of quantity surveyors, including construction, mining, renewable energy and shipbuilding. Even though quantity surveyors are rated as the third rarest skill in South Africa, their value as a profession is often underestimated. In fact, the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) argues that the reason why many government construction projects run over budget is that quantity surveyors are not properly involved in either the tender phase or when the project is on site.
Because of their role as cost-control specialists, quantity surveyors are well placed to evaluate procurement tenders and to ensure that a project does not waste money. Their fastidious attention to detail and their years of construction experience make their contribution to a project’s success invaluable.