You might have heard about a quantity surveyor but many are unsure about what they do or what they offer. However, when it comes to building your new extension, home or renovating an existing home, they will become extremely important to you. When you are working on your budget for your project, a quantity surveyor will offer their expertise when it comes to the costs involved. This will enable you to budget accordingly and ensure that the costs are spread over the duration of your project.
Who is a Quantity Surveyor?
Extensive knowledge of the costs and contracts involved in construction projects
A quantity surveyor is a professional who works in the construction industry. They possess extensive knowledge of the costs and contracts involved in construction projects. They play a pivotal role in the success of your project but they will essentially provide overall cost estimates for your project although they do offer services that go beyond this. Therefore, depending on the project, the role and services that they offer can vary.
Bill of Quantities for the project
For any project, a quantity surveyor will consider the early designs and from this, they will then be able to compile an initial budget cost plan. If the initial figures are right, then the surveyor will create a Bill of Quantities for the project. This will include every element of the project, with each process broken down into all the specific trades that will form part of the project. This can then be used to create a tender for builders to provide a quote for the entire project or to obtain individual quotes for the different areas of the project.
Managing the tender process in its entirety
Should a quantity surveyor become fully engaged in the project then they will take care of managing the tender process in its entirety. They will analyse all of the quotes that have been received and determine how they align with the tender information that was issued. They will also handle the process of negotiating figures as well as create contract documents while they’ll also actively manage budgets through the duration of the build. Should any issues relate to payments, then they will also manage this element of the process. So, with all of this in mind, when do you need a quantity surveyor?
When do you need a Quantity Surveyor?
If you are undertaking a project that involves an extension, new build or a renovation and want everything to remain on budget, then you should use a quantity surveyor. At the earliest stage, they should be involved as they will have access to the Building Cost Information Service and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, enabling them to provide a cost estimate that is backed by data as early as possible. If the early design and the budget are completely different, then it’s important to determine this from the beginning. This is particularly true if clients are looking for an unusual design as it will enable the quantity surveyor to determine whether there are any comparisons that can be made that will enable them to assess the cost risks.
Connect with Quantity Surveyors and other Construction Experts in a quick and easy way
There are a number of reasons why and when you might need a quantity surveyor. However, the most important thing is you find a reliable, qualified and trustworthy partner. If you are struggling to find the right experts for your project, Expert Plans is here to help.
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