What’s the role and responsibilities of the Quantity Surveyor (QS)?

The role of a Quantity Surveyor (QS) in construction is to manage the costs and financial aspects of a project, from the initial planning stages through to the final construction and post-construction phases. They play an important role in ensuring that a project is completed on time and within budget.

The specific responsibilities of a quantity surveyor may include:

  • Cost planning: Prepare detailed cost plans for each stage of the project, including design, procurement, and construction. They will also provide advice on cost-effective solutions and value engineering.
  • Cost estimating: Prepare detailed cost estimates for the project, including the costs of materials, labour, and equipment. They will also manage the tendering process and evaluate bids from contractors and suppliers.
  • Value engineering: Work with the design team to identify opportunities for cost savings and value engineering. They will also provide advice on the use of alternative materials and methods of construction.
  • Contract administration: Manage and administer the contracts between the main contractor, subcontractors, and suppliers, and for ensuring that the project is completed in accordance with the contract terms.
  • Project management: They may also be involved in project management, including scheduling, planning, and coordinating the work of the project team.
  • Dispute resolution: Manage and resolve disputes, claims and variations that may arise during the construction process.
  • Final accounts: Prepare the final accounts for the project, including the calculation of the final contract sum, the settlement of claims, and the resolution of any disputes.
  • Procurement: Manage the procurement process, including the selection of suppliers and contractors, and purchasing materials and equipment for the project.
  • Risk management: Identify and evaluate risks associated with the project, and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.
  • Cost control: Monitor the project’s costs and provide regular reports to the client and project team, to ensure that the project stays within budget but also identify and address any cost overruns or variances.
  • Advising the project team: Provide advice to the project team on all financial and commercial aspects of the project.

Overall, the role of a QS is to ensure that the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality. They are responsible for managing the project’s finances, and for ensuring that the project is delivered in accordance with the contract.

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