Quantity surveying is a professional discipline that involves managing and controlling the cost of a construction project from inception to completion. The quantity surveyor is responsible for providing financial advice, estimating costs, managing budgets, and preparing tender documents, among other tasks.
Quantity surveying involves a range of activities, including:
1. Cost estimation: Quantity surveyors estimate the cost of the materials, labor, and equipment required for a construction project.
2. Cost planning: Quantity surveyors develop a cost plan that includes a detailed breakdown of the expected costs for each stage of the project.
3. Procurement: Quantity surveyors manage the procurement of materials, labor, and equipment for the project.
4. Cost control: Quantity surveyors monitor the project’s actual costs and compare them to the planned costs. They identify and analyze any variances and take corrective action to ensure the project stays within budget.
5. Contract administration: Quantity surveyors are responsible for administering the contract between the client and the contractor. They ensure that the work is completed on time, to the required quality standards, and within budget.
6. Risk management: Quantity surveyors identify and manage risks that could impact the project’s cost, such as changes in scope, unexpected delays, or supply chain disruptions.
7. Value engineering: Quantity surveyors use value engineering techniques to identify opportunities to reduce costs without compromising the project’s quality or functionality.
Quantity surveying plays a critical role in the success of a construction project by ensuring that it is completed within budget and to the required quality standards. Quantity surveyors work closely with other members of the project team, including architects, engineers, contractors, and clients, to ensure that the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the desired quality.
