Category: Quantities & pricing
Prepared by Eng. Ahmed Fathy, Projects Manager ·
Definition
The quantity surveyor measures quantities from drawings, prepares and prices bills of quantities, estimates cost, and manages payment applications, variations and the final account, working for the owner, consultant or contractor.
Why it matters on a project
Their decisions directly affect the contractor's profit and the owner's budget. Accurate measurement and continuous records prevent most financial disputes.
Common mistake
Relying on rough quantities from a past project instead of measuring the actual project, so both sides face large differences.
Frequently asked questions
Does an owner need a quantity surveyor?
On medium and large projects yes, to prepare a tender BOQ and check payment applications.
What software do they use?
Excel and take-off tools such as Planswift and CostX, and BIM models on modern projects.
Related terms
- Quantity take-offExtracting quantities from drawings under defined measurement rules, with a reference for every figure.
- Bill of quantities (BOQ)A list of work items with description, unit and quantity, priced item by item.
- Payment application (IPC)A periodic payment request based on approved progress and executed quantities.
- Final accountThe final financial settlement of the contract value after completion.
Read next
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