Whether you are considering a career change, currently studying at university, or just curious about what a Quantity Surveyor (QS) does, you might be wondering what a typical day looks like. A QS plays a vital role in every stage of a construction project, from pre-works to final account settlement. In this blog, we’ll walk through what a Quantity Surveyor does before, during, and after a project—plus their ethical responsibilities.
Pre-Works: Tendering and Estimating
At the start of a new project, the Quantity Surveyor carefully examines the architect’s drawings. Each drawing is stamped with the office mark and date of receipt to confirm when it was received.
The QS then:
- Checks figured dimensions on the drawing.
- Calculates and inserts any missing dimensions.
- Raises queries with the architect for clarification.
On larger projects, the taking-off process (measuring quantities from drawings to prepare Bills of Quantities) may be split between several QSs. However, major elements such as the structure, joinery, finishes, services, and external works are often managed under the supervision of a senior QS.
Once the Bills of Quantities are completed, the documents are sent out to contractors with clear instructions covering:
- The deadline, date, and location for tender submissions.
- Where and when contract drawings can be inspected.
- How site visits can be arranged.
- A request for acknowledgement of receipt.
This stage ensures that the tendering process is fair, consistent, and transparent.
Construction Cost Management: During the Works
When construction is underway, the Quantity Surveyor’s focus shifts to financial control. They maintain detailed cost records of daily activities and prepare forecasts at different stages of the project. Clients rely on QSs to advise when payments will be due and the likely sums involved, which is done using the latest programme of works.
If changes to the scope or programme occur, the QS must report them, assess the financial implications, and advise on the best contractual mitigation. For example, when a variation arises, the QS provides a detailed cost comparison to help the client make an informed decision.
Subcontractor management is another crucial part of the role. Assessing subcontractor applications, approving payments, and maintaining good working relationships with the supply chain are monthly responsibilities. Strong communication at this stage helps avoid disputes and keeps the project financially on track.
Post-Construction: Final Account
At the end of a project, the QS prepares the Final Account. This document concludes the contract sum, including adjustments, variations, extensions of time, and any claims raised by the contractor. It represents the agreed amount the employer will pay the contractor, drawing a line under the project’s financial obligations.
The final account also helps resolve outstanding disputes and provides closure for both parties, ensuring that all costs and claims are properly accounted for.
Moral and Ethical Obligations
Beyond technical expertise, Quantity Surveyors are expected to uphold strong moral and ethical standards. According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Rules of Conduct, QSs must:
- Act with honesty, integrity, and professionalism in all dealings.
- Protect client interests while balancing wider public interest.
- Maintain competence and skill in delivering professional services.
In practice, this means building trust with clients, subcontractors, colleagues, and the wider community, while always avoiding decisions that could be considered morally wrong.
Conclusion
A typical day for a Quantity Surveyor varies depending on the project stage. From checking drawings and preparing tenders, to monitoring costs on-site, and finally closing out the contract with the final account, QSs are integral to ensuring financial success in construction projects. Combine that with a commitment to ethics and professionalism, and you have a role that balances technical skill with trust and responsibility.
