In this article, we’ll explain what a Quantity Surveyor is, outline their key roles and responsibilities, and explore the main routes you can take to become one.
What is a Quantity Surveyor?
At Metroun, we’ve explored a wide range of resources, from books to online materials, and found that definitions of a Quantity Surveyor can often be confusing. To keep it simple:
A Quantity Surveyor is a professional within the construction industry, concerned with cost, procurement, and contracts.
Put another way, companies hire Quantity Surveyors primarily to manage costs on a project. If they are doing their job well, a QS should more than pay for themselves by achieving savings and efficiencies throughout the project.
Of course, that’s only part of the story. A Quantity Surveyor’s responsibilities go far beyond cost control.
Roles and Responsibilities of a Quantity Surveyor
A typical day for a QS might include:
- Estimating or forecasting the cost of labour, plant, and materials for a project.
- Preparing tender documents, contracts, budgets, bills of quantities, and other key documents.
- Tracking design or methodology changes and updating budget projections.
- Procuring or negotiating with contractors and subcontractors.
- Measuring and valuing work completed on-site.
- Certifying payments to subcontractors.
- Liaising with clients and construction professionals such as site managers, project managers, and engineers.
- Selecting and sourcing construction materials.
How to Become a Quantity Surveyor
There are different ways to enter the profession, but most people follow one of two main paths:
1. Obtaining a Degree
Studying Quantity Surveying at university usually takes three years. The main advantages are:
- You can become fully qualified at an early age, potentially by 21.
- You will graduate with strong academic knowledge of the profession.
The downside is cost. In the UK, tuition fees are around £9,000 per year, and you won’t gain on-site experience unless you take a placement year.
2. Apprenticeship or Part-Time Degree
In this route, a company hires you and pays for your education. The degree typically takes five years part-time. The benefits are:
- Your tuition fees are covered by your employer.
- You gain valuable on-site experience while you study.
The challenges are:
- Balancing work, study, and personal life can be stressful.
- Many employers include a contractual clause requiring you to remain with the company for a set period after completing your degree. For example, if your degree takes five years and your contract requires three more years of service, you would need to stay for eight years in total to avoid repaying tuition costs.
Final Thoughts
Quantity Surveying is a rewarding career that combines technical expertise, financial management, and practical problem-solving. Whether you choose the degree route or an apprenticeship, the path you take will depend on your personal circumstances, learning style, and long-term goals.
We’d love to hear how you became a Quantity Surveyor, or how you’re planning to enter the profession. Share your story with us in the comments or get in touch directly.
