WHY YOU SHOULD USE A QUANTITY SURVEYOR WHEN YOU BUILD THAT NEW HOUSE
Almost all types of construction projects, ranging from large building projects to residential extensions, can benefit from the services of a quantity surveyor. Why aren’t companies and individual property owners taking advantage of the services quantity surveyors offer?
In order to better answer that question, it is imperative to understand the critical role that a quantity surveyor plays in a construction project.
Also known as construction economists, project managers and cost engineers, quantity surveyors are more known for their work in large-scale commercial projects. In these projects, their main role is to oversee the costs involved in a construction project — or, to put it succinctly, to ensure that the property owner gets the best value out of his investment.
The main task of a quantity surveyor is to cost the building project. But apart from this critical function, a quantity surveyor also performs other tasks that can effectively reduce the risks associated with any type of construction project. These tasks include cost planning, setting timetables, value engineering, conducting feasibility studies, and valuation of works and work packages.
Quantity surveyors may also perform some of the roles that are often associated with estate agents. These include building and measure surveys, handling planning applications, insurance assessment and claims assistance, defect investigation, conducting pre-acquisition surveys, and negotiating dilapidation's.
Apart from ensuring that a project remains within budget, quantity surveyors can perform multiple roles, including quality control.
Why aren’t some property owners and construction firms hiring these professionals? Some think that hiring a quantity surveyor will only add to the overall project cost. It may sound counter intuitive, but hiring a quantity surveyor before the project starts can actually help you save more money over the long run.
Ideally, you should appoint an independent quantity surveyor at around the same time that you hire an architect for your home. This will ensure that you can actually afford the project cost before the submission of building plans.
It is critical to underscore the importance of hiring a QS independent from the construction firm and the architect. An independent quantity surveyor will act as your representative and can prove to be an invaluable ally in situations where conflicts arise between the builder and the property owner. Your quantity surveyor can ensure that you are not over-charged and provide you with comfort and advice during the mediation process.
Is hiring a quantity surveyor worth the money? When you are working with a set budget, it may seem counter intuitive to hire another professional for your project. However, with the immense value that a quantity surveyor brings to the project, you are making a sound investment.
If you’d like to learn more about we can help you on your next project, please get in touch by hitting the CONTACT tab above.
WHY DO I NEED A QS?
Whether you are considering a small addition to your existing house, or investing in a new multi-story office block – however big or small – it helps to have a professional on hand to oversee your budget and act in your best interests.
By spending a little more for an expert in the construction cost sector, you could save so much more in the long run.
-
An architect can design you a beautiful building.
-
An engineer can make that building stand on its own.
-
A contractor can make the vision a reality.
-
BUT, your QS holds all the knowledge on key issues like costing and value for money.
Appointing a QS tends not to be the most urgent thing on your to do list when you set about a building project, but it is one of the best investments you will make.
Our advice is to consult your QS as soon as you have a scheme in mind – whether it’s a commercial project, a brand new home, an extension or a renovation.
Our first task will be to cost the proposed project. Without your QS’s input from the get go, the design normally goes to planning and tender without an extra layer of cost checking, and therefore has more chance of going over budget.
With a QS on-board, client aspiration is matched to budget early on.
It is all about safeguarding. You see, the QS challenges both architect and the builder, making sure you’re never paying for more than what is done.
As part of the pre-construction process a QS will advise on the most cost-effective and efficient procurement options. You may want to choose a particular builder and negotiate a price. You may prefer to obtain competitive tenders from a series of recognized construction companies who have extensive experience in the sector.
On top of this, you can feel safe in the knowledge that best interests are being seen to every step of the way.
If you would like some advice about finding a QS or want to talk to us about a project, drop us a line today