If you are currently on the hunt for information about the different types of quantity surveyors, you are most definitely in the right location. The nature of a professional quantity surveyor’s role is highly interesting, as they act as a bridge between the contractor and the client in the context of a given project.
A professional quantity surveyor’s primary responsibility is to ensure the effective management of the project’s financial aspects, thus making them a crucial part of the project planning and implementation. Among these professionals, there exists a particular type known as Private Practice Quantity Surveyors, fondly abbreviated as PPQS. These individuals possess specialized knowledge and skills, enabling them to offer insightful advice and suggestions to clients while operating within a corporate or organizational framework.
Private Practice Quantity Surveyors are well recognized for their ability to accurately assess and define the total cost associated with a project. This cost estimation is based on a careful evaluation of the quantity of materials required for successful project completion. As such, they play an instrumental role in financial planning and budget formulation.
Another intriguing aspect of a PPQS’s role is their constant interaction with the client and the architects involved in a project. This ongoing communication allows them to stay updated on the project’s progress and any changes or adjustments that might impact the overall cost.
In parallel to PPQS, there are also Contractor’s Quantity Surveyors. Unlike PPQS, these professionals perform their duties for the same contractor across a range of different projects. Their role primarily involves working on various projects simultaneously, ensuring efficient resource allocation, and maintaining a cost-effective approach. As they work closely with the contractor, they become an integrated part of the project team, contributing immensely to the successful realization of the project’s objectives.
Both Private Practice Quantity Surveyors and Contractor’s Quantity Surveyors have unique roles that add immense value to the overall project management process. Understanding these roles is crucial for anyone seeking to engage a quantity surveyor for their project.
Different Types of Quantity Surveyors
One of the fundamental roles in the construction industry is the role of a Quantity Surveyor. Divided into different specialties based on the type of construction projects, quantity surveyors play varied roles in the construction process. These professionals utilize their knowledge in estimating costs and managing contracts, ensuring that all projects are financially viable, and are executed within the set financial framework. Quantity surveyors can be categorized into different types based on their area of expertise and the type of construction project they are involved in. Here is an informational insight into the various types:
Consultant / Client Quantity Surveyor or PQS
Professional Quantity Surveyors, widely known as PQS, undertake a key role that relates fundamentally to ensuring the client’s cost objectives are met, and demonstrate advanced managerial expertise during the construction process. PQS is unique in the sense that they have the ability to provide an estimate of the construction cost even before the design is finalized, making them an invaluable asset in the planning process. Their findings are shared with the client periodically, ensuring transparency and fostering a sound working relationship.
Professionally, PQS are regarded as some of the most highly skilled and respected quantity surveyors in the industry. Their vast competency base encompasses a range of essential services. Some of these services include cost estimating where they predict the financial outlays of a project; value management where they ensure the client’s investment is optimized, and cost planning which involves strategizing to achieve the best cost outcomes.
Moreover, they also perform cost-benefit analysis, a tool that helps in weighing the advantages against the costs of a particular project. Life-cycle costing is another area of their expertise, which involves forecasting the costs of a project throughout its entire life cycle. They also handle valuations, where they determine the worth of a project, and dispute resolution, where they mediate disagreements between parties.
Feasibility studies are another crucial service that they offer, where they evaluate the potential success of a proposed project based on a range of factors. These comprehensive analyses equip the client with vital information to make informed decisions about the project.
In most scenarios, Quantity Surveyors have an intimate understanding of the entire construction cost, having considered a multitude of influencing factors. They possess in-depth knowledge of various cost prices, work prices, the labour cost, plant requirements as well as material costs. These elements are strategically considered and incorporated in their advice, essentially guiding the course of action for the client and the other stakeholders involved in the project.
Their ability to manage these factors effectively allows Quantity Surveyors to successfully arrange, advise and guide the client and their respective teams. This ultimately contributes to the seamless execution of the project, ensuring the project goals are achieved as per the planned schedule and budget.
Contractor’s Quantity Surveyor / Construction Estimator
In a construction project, the role of a Contractor’s Quantity Surveyor, or Construction Estimator, is essential. Also referred to as a QS, this professional functions under the umbrella of the main contractor organization. Their role is vital during all stages of a project, right from its inception till the post-construction stage. A contractor quantity surveyor performs a wide array of tasks that span across cost estimation, project administration, planning, and management. They also conduct regular checks and assessments of the ongoing projects.
In addition to the above responsibilities, the QS plays an integral part in ensuring the seamless performance of various works and operations. This mirrors the duties of a practice quantity surveyor, which include evaluating the overall cost of the building project and estimating the scope and extent of the work involved.
It’s important to highlight that these specific aspects of the job are usually performed by a sub-contractor. The findings, outcomes, and reports from these tasks are then forwarded to the contractor’s QS for evaluation and consolidation. Industry experts suggest that the role of the contractor quantity surveyor is likely to expand in the future. In addition to their current responsibilities, they will also oversee critical financial aspects such as cash flows and payments, further broadening the scope of their work.
The unique skill set of quantity surveyors is highly esteemed, and these professionals are often sought after for various job positions. This is largely because the competencies of a quantity surveyor are not confined to a single area of expertise. Instead, they possess a wide range of abilities that are transferable and highly valued across the construction and engineering fields.
For instance, quantity surveyors can consider opportunities as international surveyors, where their skills can be utilized on a global scale. They can also opt for roles such as senior cost estimators or cost engineers, where their proficiency in cost estimation and project budgeting is highly valued. Furthermore, if their interest lies in the technical side of construction, they can explore positions as estimating engineers. Their logistical skills can also open doors to opportunities as logistics specialists. Therefore, it’s evident that the versatile and dynamic skill set of quantity surveyors enables them to apply to a diverse spectrum of roles within the engineering field.
Mechanical and Electrical Quantity Surveyor (M&E Qs)
As the title of our discussion suggests, ‘Types of Quantity Surveyors’, we meet a particularly specialized role – the Mechanical and Electrical Quantity Surveyor, commonly abbreviated as M&E QS. These professionals focus specifically on the mechanical and electrical aspects of the surveying process.
Unlike their more generalized counterparts, M&E QS’s typically don’t partake in the full breadth of project activities. Their work is concentrated, and they excel in the specifics of mechanical and electrical quantity surveying. It’s vital to note that this specialization does not dilute their importance in a project. Quite the contrary, their role is essential and indispensable.
Their main role is locked onto the technicalities and complexities of mechanical and electrical systems, examining the criticality of both the mechanical and electrical components in any given project. Their focus is precise, and their work is detailed.
In essence, the function of a Mechanical and Electrical Quantity Surveyor is much like that of a surgeon – concentrating on electrical and mechanical elements, providing critical insight, and making important contributions to the overall project. The M&E QS maintains a clear focus and applies their deep understanding of their field to ensure accurate surveying of these essential project components.
Sub Trade QS
Sub Trade QS, also known as Subcontractor Quantity Surveyors, are deeply specialized professionals within the broader field of quantity surveying. These professionals focus on a specific industry sector, often dealing with areas such as mechanical services, or the plumbing industry. Operating within their niche, they display an impressive level of efficiency, honed by years of hands-on experience and specialized training.
Working directly under a sub-contract company, their role is crucial for ensuring that specific tasks related to their domain are accurately estimated, efficiently managed, and perfectly executed. They employ stringent cost-control mechanisms and bring to the table a deep understanding of their field, which allows them to accurately estimate the resources required for a sub-trade project, ensuring that the work proceeds smoothly without unnecessary surprises or unwanted delays.
However, it’s important to note the specialized nature of their work. They excel in their chosen fields, but their expertise does not typically extend to all aspects of a project. So, for example, if your project requires timber works, a Sub Trade QS specializing in, say, mechanical services, wouldn’t be the right professional for this specific job.
These specialists are highly professional and extremely skilled within their chosen area of expertise. However, this also means that they are rare and highly sought-after. Finding the right Sub Trade QS for your specific project might require a bit of research and time, but rest assured, their unique skill set and industry-specific expertise can bring immense value to any sub-contract project they undertake. In an industry where precision and cost-efficiency are key, their unique abilities make them an invaluable asset.
Backyard QS / Self-employed QS / Freelance Quantity Surveyor
In the wide spectrum of Quantity Surveying, there’s a distinguished group that truly stands out – the Backyard QS, also referred to as Self-employed QS or Freelance Quantity Surveyors. This group warrants unequivocal respect and admiration from both contemporaries and clients alike. These professionals have mastered the art of balance, juggling both residential life and professional excellence with finesse.
Nestled in small offices or stylishly convenient rooms in their homes, they’ve carved their niche, catering to small and medium-sized enterprises. They’ve created an environment that allows them to respond swiftly to the needs of their clients while maintaining the comfort of a home office. The convenience factor extends beyond their workspace to their clients too, offering a cosy atmosphere for negotiations and collaborations.
The Backyard QS are, without a doubt, seasoned experts in residential pricing. They’ve honed their skills over a considerable period, gaining substantial experience and insights. Their understanding of the intricacies involved in pricing evaluations for residential properties sets them apart in the industry.
Being in the business for quite a long time, they’ve built a reputation that precedes them. They’ve been instrumental in tilting the scales towards success for numerous small and medium enterprises. Their resolute commitment is evident in their constant engagement with work. These professionals are always busy, performing their duties for the builders who form the backbone of small and medium enterprises.
It’s undeniable that the work they do is of immense value, and their contributions to the industry are significant. Whether it’s meticulous cost planning, astute contract administration, or rigorous project management, their fingers are always on the pulse of every operation. The Backyard QS, Self-employed QS, or Freelance Quantity Surveyors, as they are known, continue to blaze trails, leaving indelible marks on the landscapes of residential construction and SME building projects.
Commercial Quantity Surveyors
Commercial Quantity Surveyors operate primarily within the sphere of commercial construction projects. Their role is pivotal in these large-scale projects as they have the responsibility of cost estimation. This includes predicting the expenditure involved in the construction process, ranging from sourcing materials to the labour costs, thereby setting a financial blueprint for the project. Moreover, they analyze tender documents, which are essential in selecting the right contractors for the project. Their work does not end here as they also administer contracts throughout the project, ensuring that all financial aspects are well managed and within the pre-decided budget.
Residential Quantity Surveyors
Quite different in their scope of work, Residential Quantity Surveyors are specialists in dealing with residential projects. This could include anything from standalone houses to large apartment complexes. Their primary role involves helping homeowners and residential property developers understand the costs entailed in their projects. They provide estimation about the costs of materials, labor, and other miscellaneous expenses, allowing homeowners to plan their finances effectively. Their expertise ensures that homeowners have a realistic expectation about the project’s expenditure.
Building Surveyor
Building Surveyors, although different from a Quantity Surveyor, are closely related and often work in tandem on various construction projects. Their role revolves around the design, development, and maintenance of buildings. They are the ones who ensure that all structures are in line with the set building regulations and standards. A Building Surveyor’s job is to certify that every structure is safe, energy-efficient, and accessible. They play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and standard of living in all types of buildings.
Project Quantity Surveyor
Project Quantity Surveyors, as the name suggests, are assigned to a specific project. Unlike other surveyors who may juggle multiple projects, these professionals focus on a single project at a time. They take care of the financial and contractual aspects of that particular project. From the start to the end of the project, they keep a close eye on the finances, ensuring that the project stays within the budget. The Project Quantity Surveyor is a crucial link in managing the project’s financial health, making sure that all monetary aspects are well aligned with the overall project plan.
Senior Quantity Surveyor
The Senior Quantity Surveyor holds the most esteemed position in the realm of quantity surveying. As implied by the title, they are the surveyors who have attained the highest level of expertise and experience in their field. They bear the responsibility and authority of the entire team, steering the course of the project they are assigned to with their proficient leadership.
The responsibilities of a Senior Quantity Surveyor are multifaceted. On a given project, they will be the primary point of contact and leader for the team. This means they’re not only spearheading the project but also inspiring and guiding their team towards the culmination of the project goals. They ensure that each team member is performing their part efficiently and effectively, aligning their contribution to the broad picture of the project.
The Senior Quantity Surveyor serves as the vital link connecting the surveying team and the surveying firm. Their role involves communicating with the surveying firm on an ongoing basis. They are expected to report the status, progress, and any potential issues or roadblocks that might obstruct the path of the project. This continuous line of communication ensures that the surveying firm is kept up-to-date with every nuance of the project, maintaining a transparent and smooth flow of operations.
The role of a Senior Quantity Surveyor is indeed one of significant importance. It requires a combination of extensive industry knowledge, strong leadership skills, efficient team management capabilities, and effective communication abilities. The successful fulfillment of this role is integral to the functioning of the surveying team and the successful completion of their projects.
Job Opportunities for Quantity Surveyors
The field of quantity surveying is an evergreen one with numerous job opportunities spread across various sectors. For individuals possessing the unique skill set required for quantity surveying, several pathways are open in governmental bodies, legal institutions, construction consultancy and advisory services, construction companies, and architectural firms. These sectors have a constant demand for capable quantity surveyors due to the intrinsic nature of their work which entails planning, cost estimation, and managing construction projects.
Now, you may be wondering, why is there such a high demand for quantity surveyors? The answer lies in the core competencies of these professionals. Quantity surveyors are primarily responsible for analyzing and estimating the quantity of materials and cost of labor for a given project. This crucial role puts them at the center of any project, thereby making them an integral part of firms dealing with construction, architecture, law, and government contracts.
When we consider the broader roles that quantity surveyors play, these individuals are essentially the key holders in managing a project’s budget, making them invaluable to companies and firms worldwide. Thanks to their deep knowledge and understanding of project and cost management, quantity surveyors are constantly on the radar of numerous companies and agencies.
The unique skills of quantity surveyors are not only recognized but also much admired in the field. These professionals, with their precise estimations and cost management, help companies save resources and prevent overspending, thus making them essential to the workflow. The future too holds a promising outlook for quantity surveyors. As long as there are projects to be constructed and budgets to be managed, the expertise of these professionals will be sought after.
If you decide to pursue a degree in quantity surveying, you’re essentially setting yourself up for a prosperous career with diverse opportunities. The knowledge and practical skills acquired from such a degree will equip you for the challenges in the field and open doors for you in numerous sectors globally. Therefore, with a degree in quantity surveying under your belt, you’re not just improving your prospects, but you’re also ensuring a successful career for yourself in the long run.