According to the latest S&P Global UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) survey, total industry activity in the UK construction sector has fallen at the sharpest rate in more than five years.
Despite this drop in PMI from 48.8 in June to 44.3 in July, recruitment agencies are confident that there remains a strong demand for quantity surveyors, but why?
An overview: What does a quantity surveyor do?
· Pre-planning support
· Project feasibility services
· Cost estimation
· Budget management
· Negotiation and contract administration
· Support client decision making
· Risk management
Pre-planning support
Quantity surveyors can play a crucial role in the success of a construction project – long before planning permission is sought, an architect is appointed, or a contractor is hired.
By seeking guidance from a quantity surveyor early on, clients can reduce the risk of requiring costly redesigns later and ensure the entire project team is aligned on a proposal’s goals and scope from the outset.
Project feasibility services
Factors such as site conditions, access requirements, and market risks can all have an impact on the viability of a construction project. By identifying any potential problems early on in the process, quantity surveyors can encourage clients to make more informed decisions and avoid costly surprises down the line.
Cost estimation
This integrated approach also accounts for a range of cost drivers, such as location-specific factors, inflation, and risk allowances, to deliver reliable, data-driven project cost estimations.
Budget management
If the budget is creeping up, the scope changes, or the client requires a financial update, the quantity surveyor is on hand to spot overspending, adjust budgets to incorporate any adaptations, and provide comprehensive cost reports.
Negotiation and contract administration
Once terms have been agreed and the most suitable contract type selected, the quantity surveyor will prepare the tender documents. They’ll ensure the payment terms are fair, each party’s obligations are clearly defined, and responsibilities are properly allocated.
This proactive approach helps to minimise the risk of misunderstandings and future disputes by reducing ambiguity and fostering open communication.
Procurement strategy
Procurement is so much more than simply sourcing materials and suppliers – when a quantity surveyor gets involved, it becomes a long-term, strategic undertaking.
As the project progresses, further procurement may be required, such as specialist packages or subcontractors. A quantity surveyor ensures every procurement decision stays aligned with the project objectives and budget, helping to avoid delays and cost overruns.
Support client decision-making
Given their involvement in almost every aspect of a project, from cost management and procurement to risk mitigation, dispute resolution, and even technology integration, quantity surveyors are well-equipped and uniquely positioned to advise their clients on a wide range of strategic decisions.
Among many others, this can include selecting the most appropriate contract forms, identifying optimal procurement routes, and recommending design options aligned with the client’s priorities, whether those are related to cost, sustainability, or performance.
Risk management
While there’s no way to eliminate all project risks, they can be identified, managed, and mitigated – and that’s exactly where quantity surveyors add real value.
This proactive and tailored approach to risk management is vital to safeguarding budgets, timelines, and overall project viability, enabling clients to anticipate and plan for risks rather than simply respond to them.
How and why is the role evolving?
Technological advancements
Thanks to the technological advancements of the 21st century, quantity surveyors can now leverage a wide range of data-driven processes and specialised digital tools to enhance the accuracy and reliability of various services they provide
Budget pressures and margin risk
Following rising labour and material costs, combined with growing economic uncertainty in the UK (as outlined in a recent economic update from the House of Commons Library), there’s greater pressure on quantity surveyors to deliver accurate cost planning and robust contract management.
Greater focus on sustainability
As a result, modern quantity surveyors are playing an increasingly critical role in driving sustainable practices. From reducing waste to integrating sustainable, eco-friendly materials across all stages of a project, they use a combination of specialised software, established industry frameworks, and environmental assessment tools to support these aims.
Long-standing skills shortages
From project managers to cost estimators, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to obtain the necessary expertise in every required field. This shortage has meant that quantity surveyors are being asked to step into roles typically occupied by other professionals, particularly managerial and strategic positions.
By offering early advice on phasing, sustainability, and lifecycle costs, today’s multi-skilled quantity surveyors are increasingly recognised as project leaders and trusted advisors, surpassing their traditional role as cost estimators.
Kingsmead Consultants – more than cost managers
At Kingsmead Consultants, we’re not just chartered quantity surveyors – we’re your trusted strategic partner in construction project success.
Ready to get started? For a no-obligation consultation:
Call us on 01270 323 515
