What Is a Quantity Surveyor and What Do They Do?

If you've ever been involved in a construction project - whether you're a homeowner planning a renovation, a property developer, or a contractor - you’ve likely heard of a quantity surveyor. But you might still be wondering: What is a quantity surveyor? And what does a quantity surveyor do exactly?

In this article, we’ll answer these questions and explore how engaging a qualified quantity surveyor can save you time, money, and stress across your construction or development journey.

What Is a Quantity Surveyor?

A quantity surveyor, often referred to as a QS, is a highly trained construction cost consultant who specialises in managing all aspects of the financial and contractual side of building projects. Their primary role is to ensure that construction projects are completed within budget and to the required standards, while also managing risks, contracts, and stakeholder communication.

In simpler terms, a quantity surveyor is the financial manager of the construction world. From early feasibility assessments to final handovers, they are responsible for keeping your project cost-effective and commercially viable.

At QSPro, we deliver experienced, independent quantity surveying services to clients across New Zealand and Australia - offering peace of mind that your investment is in expert hands.

What Does a Quantity Surveyor Do?

The role of a quantity surveyor spans the entire project lifecycle - from initial cost planning to final account reconciliation. Let’s break down what quantity surveyors do at each phase of a project:

1. Pre-Construction (Planning and Design Stage)

• Feasibility Studies: A quantity surveyor assesses the financial feasibility of your proposed project by providing detailed cost estimates and projections. This helps you determine whether the project is viable from a financial standpoint.

  
  

• Cost Planning and Budgeting: Based on design drawings and specifications, a QS will develop a cost plan. This includes material costs, labour, plant hire, consultant fees, and contingencies.
  

• Procurement Advice: Quantity surveyors guide you on the best procurement methods - be it traditional, design-and-build, or construction management - tailored to your project goals.
  

• Tendering and Contractor Selection: A QS prepares the bill of quantities (BoQ) and tender documents, reviews contractor submissions, and assists in evaluating which bid provides the best value.
  

2. Construction Phase

• Cost Control: Once construction starts, quantity surveyors track expenses, monitor variations, and ensure that the contractor’s claims are fair and accurate.
  

• Contract Administration: A QS manages all contractual matters, including change orders and dispute resolution, and ensures that all parties are fulfilling their obligations.
  

• Progress Valuations: They assess work completed to date and recommend payments to contractors to ensure fair and timely compensation.
  

• Risk Management: Quantity surveyors identify and mitigate financial risks such as inflation, delays, and supply chain disruptions.
  

3. Post-Construction

• Final Accounts: At the end of the project, the QS prepares the final accounts, reconciling all costs and ensuring transparency for all stakeholders.
  

• Dispute Resolution: If conflicts arise over variations or delays, a QS can serve as a mediator or expert witness.
  

In short, if you're wondering what quantity surveyor do - the answer is that they manage the financial heartbeat of your construction project, ensuring every dollar is accounted for and every cost is justified.

Why Do You Need a Quantity Surveyor?

Here are some key reasons why quantity surveyors are essential to modern construction:

• Cost Certainty: Without a QS, cost overruns can spiral quickly. A quantity surveyor ensures your project stays within budget by proactively managing estimates and variations.
  

• Contract Expertise: Construction contracts are complex and fraught with potential risk. A QS understands the legal frameworks and can protect your interests.
  

• Independent Advice: Quantity surveyors act as impartial advisors, representing the client’s best interests - especially valuable when multiple contractors and consultants are involved.
  

• Time Savings: By coordinating financial and contractual matters, a QS frees up time for project managers and owners to focus on broader objectives.
  

Who Uses Quantity Surveyors?

Quantity surveyors work with a diverse range of clients, including:

• Residential Builders & Developers

• Commercial Property Owners

• Architects & Designers

• Government Bodies & Councils

• Investors & Lending Institutions

• Main Contractors & Subcontractors
  

Whether you’re building a new home in Auckland, renovating a retail site in Wellington, or managing a multi-stage commercial project in Christchurch, a qualified QS is an essential partner.

The QSPro Difference

At QSPro, we bring decades of industry experience to every project. Our services are tailored to suit all scales - from minor residential renovations to complex infrastructure developments. We are:

• Independent - No ties to contractors or suppliers.

• Transparent - Upfront, clear communication and reporting.

• Accessible - With the ability to work with clients in Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington as well as regions like Hamilton, Tauranga, Dunedin, and Hawke’s Bay.

• Tech-enabled - Using the latest quantity surveying software for speed and accuracy.

We’ve proudly worked with residential builders, developers, councils, and businesses across New Zealand and Australia.

Common Misconceptions About Quantity Surveyors

There are several myths that often circulate around what quantity surveyors do. Let’s clear a few up:

• “A QS is only needed on large projects.”Not true. Even small residential builds can benefit from the oversight and cost certainty a QS provides.
  

• “My builder does the budget so I don’t need a QS.”A builder’s estimate is not the same as an independent, detailed cost breakdown from a QS - especially one working in your best interest.
  

• “QS services are expensive.”A good QS will often save you more money than they cost, by avoiding overpayments, reducing risk, and ensuring competitive pricing.
  

Final Thoughts

So, what is a quantity surveyor?  They’re your project’s financial advocate. And what does a quantity surveyor do? They deliver cost certainty, contractual clarity, and risk mitigation from the ground up.

If you’re starting a construction project and want confidence in your numbers, partnering with a qualified, independent QS is one of the smartest moves you can make.

Ready to Get Started?

Contact the team at QSPro for a no-obligation discussion about your next project. We offer transparent pricing, proven expertise, and national & Trans Tasman coverage.

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