what does a quantity surveyor do

A quantity surveyor manages the cost and commercial side of construction projects. They help make sure a project is planned, priced, contracted, and delivered within budget while meeting quality and legal standards.

What they do

A quantity surveyor typically:

• Estimates costs, materials, labour, and timelines.

• Prepares tender and contract documents, including bills of quantities.

• Monitors budgets, cash flow, and payments during the build.

• Assesses risk, advises on cost-saving options, and helps with value engineering.

• Reviews work completed by subcontractors and supports final accounts and claims.

Where they work

Quantity surveyors are involved across the full lifecycle of a project, from feasibility and planning through construction and final handover. They usually work with clients, contractors, architects, engineers, and subcontractors to keep the project commercially on track.

In simple terms

If a construction project is the “engine,” the quantity surveyor is one of the people making sure it does not run out of money or drift off budget.

If you want, I can also explain the difference between a quantity surveyor and a building surveyor.