There are four types of quantity surveyors: PQS, CQS, Sub-trade Quantity Surveyors and Senior Quantity Surveyors.
Quantity surveyors (QS) stand as pillars in the construction industry, orchestrating the financial intricacies that define the success of a project. Their responsibilities span from cost estimation to compliance, making them indispensable figures in the construction process.
In this article, we will explrore the various types of quantity surveyors, each playing a distinct role in shaping the outcome of construction endeavors.
Types of Quantity Surveyors
There are a variety of different types of quantity surveyors, each with their own specialization:
1. Consultant or Client Quantity Surveyor (PQS)
Advocates for Client Interests.
A PQS works on behalf of the client to ensure that the construction project is completed within budget and to the required standards. They are involved in all aspects of the project, from the initial design stage to the final handover.
Role: Appointed by the client, they are the strategic minds behind estimating construction costs before the design phase. They actively engage with clients and personnel, providing insights and expertise.
Responsibilities:
- Providing cost estimates and tender appraisals
- Preparing bills of quantities
- Monitoring project costs and progress
- Managing variations and claims
- Finalizing projects and writing project reviews
Focus: Client collaboration, strategic cost management.
2. Contractor’s Quantity Surveyor (CQS)
Navigating Costs for Contractors.
A CQS works for the contractor to help them manage the costs and risks of a construction project.
Role: Employed by construction companies, they work closely with contractors to manage project costs effectively.
Responsibilities:
- Preparing cost estimates and tender submissions
- Managing subcontracts
- Monitoring project costs and progress
- Managing variations and claims
- Finalizing projects and writing project reviews
Focus: Seamless project execution within budget constraints.
3. Sub-Trade Quantity Surveyor
The Specialist.
Specialists in specific fields like plumbing and electrical works, they bring expertise to sub-contractor roles. Whether appointed or freelance, they focus on precise cost management within their specialized domains.
Responsibilities:
- Estimating the cost of sub-trade works
- Monitoring the progress and costs of sub-trade works
- Managing variations and claims for sub-trade works
Example: Mechanical and Electrical (M&E) Quantity Surveyor
4. Senior Quantity Surveyor
Leadership in Expertise.
A senior QS is a more experienced QS who takes on a more senior role, such as leading a team of QS on a large project. They are responsible for overseeing all aspects of the QS process, and ensuring that all deadlines and budgets are met.
Responsibilities:
- Overseeing the QS process for a project
- Leading and mentoring a team of QS
- Handle budget and deadlines.
- Reporting to the client and other stakeholders
Focus: Leadership, strategic oversight, quality assurance.
How to choose the right quantity surveyor
When choosing a quantity surveyor, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The budget
- The type of project
- The size and complexity of the project
- The experience and qualifications of the QS
- The QS’s track record
It is also important to ensure that the QS is a member of a professional body, such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
If you are unsure which type of quantity surveyor is right for your project, it is always advisable to seek professional advice.
Also Read: Difference Between Surveying and Quantity Surveying
Conclusion
Quantity surveyors play a vital role in the construction industry, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget, and that they meet all relevant safety and regulatory requirements. There are a variety of different types of quantity surveyors, each with their own specialization. Also, this allows QS to provide the expertise required to meet the specific needs of any construction project.
Additional notes:
- PQSs are also involved in value management, cost planning, and life cycle costing.
- CQSs are also involved in managing procurement and contracts.
- Sub-trade quantity surveyors are often involved in dispute resolution.
- Senior quantity surveyors are also involved in mentoring and training junior quantity surveyors.
By understanding the different types of quantity surveyors and their roles, clients and construction companies can make informed decisions about which QS to appoint for their project.
I hope this article has been informative and helpful. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
QS stands for Quantity surveyors, are professionals in the construction industry who manage the contractual and financial aspects of small and large construction projects. Their service is instrumental in keeping projects on track and within budget.
Quantity surveyors (QS) are professionals who estimate and control costs for large construction projects. They are also known as: Cost consultants, Commercial managers, Cost managers, Cost engineers.
There are two main types of quantity surveyors (QS): consultancy QS and contractor’s QS. Consultancy QSs work for the client and are responsible for advising them on cost and managing the budget, while contractor’s QSs work for the contractor and are responsible for estimating cost and managing the budget during the construction phase.
The type of QS that is right for you will depend on your skills, experience, and career goals. If you have an interest in working on a variety of projects and providing clients with cost advice, the role of consultant/client QS might be suitable for you. If managing the project budget while working for a contractor appeals to you, the position of contractor QS may be a better fit.