De Leeuw – Quantity Surveying

Introduction

Definition of Quantity Surveying

Quantity Surveying, also known as Construction Economics or Cost Engineering, is a professional discipline that focuses on the cost management of construction projects. It involves the measurement, assessment, and control of the costs associated with a construction project from its conception to completion. Quantity Surveyors use their expertise to provide cost advice and assistance to clients, contractors, and other construction professionals.

Overview of the importance of Quantity Surveying

Quantity Surveying plays a crucial role in ensuring that construction projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required standards of quality and safety. The Quantity Surveyor works closely with the project team to provide cost advice, cost planning, and cost control services, helping to minimize construction costs, reduce risk, and maximize value for the client. With their unique blend of technical and financial expertise, Quantity Surveyors play a vital role in the successful delivery of construction projects of all sizes and types.

What is Quantity Surveying?

Role of a Quantity Surveyor

A Quantity Surveyor is a professional who specializes in the cost management of construction projects. They work closely with clients, contractors, and other construction professionals to provide expert advice and assistance on all matters related to cost and value. The Quantity Surveyor’s role is to ensure that construction projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required standards of quality and safety.

Key responsibilities of a Quantity Surveyor

The key responsibilities of a Quantity Surveyor include:

• Measuring, estimating, and cost planning
• Cost control and cost management
• Contract administration and procurement advice
• Risk management and value engineering
• Preparation of tender and contract documents
• Final account preparation and negotiation
• Dispute resolution and expert witness services

Differences between a QS and a PQS

The terms “QS” and “PQS” are often used interchangeably to refer to Quantity Surveyors, but there is a subtle difference between the two. “QS” stands for “Quantity Surveyor,” while “PQS” stands for “Professional Quantity Surveyor.” A Professional Quantity Surveyor is a Quantity Surveyor who has obtained a recognized professional qualification and is a member of a professional institution, such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). The term “PQS” is typically used to distinguish Quantity Surveyors who have a higher level of professional competence and experience from those who do not.

Importance of Surveying in Civil Engineering

Quantity Surveying plays a vital role in the field of civil engineering, as it provides the essential cost management services that are critical to the success of any construction project. The Quantity Surveyor works closely with the project team, providing cost advice, cost planning, and cost control services, to ensure that the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the required standards of quality and safety.

How Surveying is used in Civil Engineering

The role of Quantity Surveying in civil engineering involves a wide range of activities, including:

• Measuring and estimating the costs of construction materials, labor, and equipment
• Assessing the feasibility of construction projects and providing cost advice to clients
• Developing cost plans and budgets for construction projects
• Monitoring construction costs and providing cost control services to ensure that the project stays on track and within budget
• Negotiating and preparing contracts for the supply of construction materials, labor, and equipment
• Preparing final accounts and settling disputes with contractors and suppliers.

The Quantity Surveyor is an essential member of the project team, providing the financial expertise and cost management services that are critical to the successful delivery of any civil engineering project.

What does a Contractor Quantity Surveyor do?

Overview of the role of a Contractor Quantity Surveyor

A Contractor Quantity Surveyor is responsible for providing cost management services to contractors and suppliers in the construction industry. This includes assessing the feasibility of construction projects, developing cost plans and budgets, negotiating contracts, and providing cost control services to ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required standards of quality and safety.

Key responsibilities of a Contractor Quantity Surveyor

The key responsibilities of a Contractor Quantity Surveyor include:

• Assessing the feasibility of construction projects and providing cost advice to contractors and suppliers
• Developing cost plans and budgets for construction projects
• Monitoring construction costs and providing cost control services to ensure that the project stays on track and within budget
• Negotiating and preparing contracts for the supply of construction materials, labor, and equipment
• Preparing final accounts and settling disputes with contractors and suppliers.

Requirements for becoming a Quantity Surveyor

Education and certification requirements

To become a Quantity Surveyor, you will typically need to have a degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Economics, or a related field. In addition, many Quantity Surveyors choose to become certified by obtaining a professional certification, such as a Chartered Quantity Surveyor (MRICS) or a Registered Quantity Surveyor (RQS).

Other necessary skills and knowledge

In addition to education and certification, there are a number of other skills and knowledge that are necessary to become a successful Quantity Surveyor. These include:

• Strong analytical and mathematical skills
• Knowledge of construction materials, labor, and equipment costs
• Knowledge of construction contracts and regulations
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• The ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Quantity Surveying Services

Overview of Quantity Surveying Services

Quantity Surveying Services encompass a wide range of activities that are critical to the success of any construction project. These services include cost management, cost control, cost planning, contract administration, and dispute resolution.

Different types of Quantity Surveying Services

There are many different types of Quantity Surveying Services, including:

• Cost management and cost control
• Cost planning and budgeting
• Contract administration and dispute resolution
• Final account preparation and settlement
• Feasibility studies and cost advice

De Leeuw’s Projects on Quantity Surveying

• Duja Tower
• Al Qurm Tourist Visitor Center
• Rabia Al Naseem Hotel
• Bridi Park Sharjah
• Mushrif Park
• Airport City master plan and infrastructure works
• Mattex Fabrics and Mattex Leisure Factories, Jebel Ali
• Jet Propulsion Center @ King Abdul Aziz International Airport
• Mammut Technocrete Precast Factory, Jebel Ali
• City Experience

Conclusion

Recap of the Importance of Quantity Surveying

Quantity surveying plays a crucial role in the construction industry by ensuring that projects are completed within budget and on time. It is a vital aspect of construction project management and provides important financial and commercial advice to clients and contractors. Quantity surveyors are responsible for cost planning, procurement strategies, value engineering, risk management, and contract administration.

Final Thoughts on the Future of Quantity Surveying

The future of quantity surveying looks bright, as construction projects continue to grow and expand around the world. Quantity surveying services will continue to be in high demand as the construction industry continues to evolve and become more complex. With the advancement of technology, quantity surveyors will have access to new tools and software that will make their work more efficient and effective.

In conclusion, quantity surveying is a critical aspect of the construction industry and will continue to play an important role in ensuring that construction projects are completed on time and within budget. Whether you are a client, contractor, or quantity surveyor, it is essential to understand the importance and benefits of this field.