How to Choose the Right Quantity Surveyor for Your Project
If you're planning a construction project — whether it's a residential extension, a commercial space fit-out, or a full-scale development — hiring the right quantity surveyor can make a massive difference to the outcome. From managing budgets and reviewing tenders to resolving contract issues, a quantity surveyor helps keep your project running smoothly and within financial boundaries.
The challenge? Not all quantity surveyors offer the same level of insight, service, or experience. Knowing how to pick the right one can help you avoid overspending, delays, and unwanted surprises.
Here’s what you need to know to make a confident, informed decision.
What Is Quantity Surveying and Why Is It Important?
Quantity surveying refers to the management of costs and contracts in construction. It covers all financial aspects of a building project, from initial cost planning and budgeting to contract negotiation, interim payments, and final account reconciliation.
Quantity surveyors are often involved from the pre-construction phase, helping clients understand what their project will cost. They provide expert advice on how to achieve value for money, reduce wasteful spending, and ensure that construction works are carried out to agreed financial terms.
Whether you're building from scratch or refurbishing an existing property, quantity surveying plays a key role in avoiding budget creep and contractual headaches.
The Benefits of a Quantity Surveyor in Your Project
The benefits of a quantity surveyor are wide-ranging and valuable at every stage of a build. These include:
Establishing realistic budgets based on current market data
Providing clear and itemised breakdowns of material and labour costs
Advising on the most efficient procurement routes
Comparing contractor bids to ensure fair pricing and quality outcomes
Managing change requests and cost variations in a structured way
Forecasting cash flow and keeping track of actual vs estimated spend
Navigating contractual disputes and minimising legal risk
One of the often-overlooked benefits of a quantity surveyor is peace of mind. With the right professional managing the numbers, you can focus on the creative and strategic aspects of your build, knowing the finances are under control.
What to Look for in Professional Quantity Surveyors
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to quantity surveyors. You’ll want someone whose experience, communication style, and working approach match the nature and complexity of your project.
Start by checking for:
Relevant Experience
Ask about previous projects similar to yours. Residential builds, commercial developments, heritage refurbishments — each comes with different cost challenges.
RICS Accreditation
Choosing a RICS-accredited quantity surveyor means you’re working with a professional who meets strict industry standards and is committed to ongoing development.
Local Knowledge
Rates for materials, trades, and even regulations can vary by region. A quantity surveyor familiar with your area (for example, Sussex or the South East) will bring more accurate advice to the table.
Communication Style
Technical expertise is essential, but so is the ability to explain things clearly. Look for someone who breaks down information in a way you understand, not just industry jargon.
Key Questions to Ask Before You Commit
When narrowing down your options, don’t hesitate to ask direct questions. For example:
Have you worked on projects of this size and type before?
What does your service include — and what’s extra?
How do you manage cost changes or scope creep?
How frequently will I receive financial updates?
Can you help with procurement and tender analysis?
Will you be involved post-contract, or only during the pre-construction phase?
You’re trusting this person with the financial structure of your build, so it's important to establish mutual clarity and trust upfront.
Why It’s Worth Getting Your QS Involved Early
Many clients make the mistake of bringing a quantity surveyor in too late after plans are drawn, designs finalised, and contractors engaged. But involving your QS early gives you access to practical advice that can shape better decisions and avoid expensive changes down the road.
At the design stage, for example, they can provide cost comparisons on materials and finishes, suggest value-engineered alternatives, or flag design details that may drive up labour costs. When procurement begins, they help you choose the right contractual structure and contractors based on real value rather than just the lowest price.
In short, getting your quantity surveyor involved early means fewer financial shocks and better outcomes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Quantity Surveyor
Going purely on cost: Cheapest doesn’t always mean best. Poor advice can cost you more later.
Not checking references or case studies: A track record tells you more than a polished website.
Overlooking the scope of service: Make sure you know what’s included — some services are pre-construction only, while others offer full lifecycle support.
Not asking about reporting frequency: If staying updated is important to you, set expectations from the beginning.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right quantity surveyor is one of the smartest things you can do for your construction project. It’s not just about controlling costs — it’s about building with confidence, avoiding financial risk, and ensuring everyone on-site understands the financial framework they’re working within.
At Garratt Construction Consultants, we provide professional quantity surveying services across Sussex, supporting projects from first sketches to final invoices. With RICS accreditation and decades of hands-on experience, we’re here to keep your build efficient, accountable, and cost-effective.
Planning a project soon? Get in touch to see how we can help keep your budget — and your project — right on track.
