Quantity Surveyor vs Estimator – Whats the Difference?

In the dynamic realm of the construction industry, the roles of the estimator and the quantity surveyor stand as critical pillars in ensuring the successful planning, execution, and financial control of projects. While their objectives align in managing costs, these professionals contribute distinct skill sets and expertise at different stages of a project’s lifecycle. Navigating the complexities of construction requires a nuanced understanding of their roles, responsibilities, and the unique value each brings to the table. This exploration aims to shed light on the characteristics that differentiate estimators and quantity surveyors, providing valuable insights to help stakeholders make informed decisions about the right fit for their specific construction endeavors.

The estimator and the quantity surveyor are two important roles in the construction industry that frequently require clarification when it comes to duties. Although they are both essential to the successful completion of construction projects, they each carry out distinct responsibilities. Therefore, how do you determine which professional might be the best option for the project you are working on? The following is information that you need to know about the unique roles, responsibilities, and skills that they possess.

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What Does an Estimator Do in the Construction Industry?

The primary responsibility of a construction cost estimator is to provide initial cost estimates that assist builders and subcontractors in becoming successful in obtaining tenders.

What are their Roles and Responsibilities?

Strong abilities in communication, mathematics, and analysis are required for this position. Estimators are required to have a strong attention to detail, an excellent understanding of the industry, and the ability to remain current on the factors that influence construction costs. They are typically employed by general contractors, subcontractors, and construction management firms, and their primary focus is on residential and smaller commercial construction projects. They play a significant part in the profitability and success of construction projects.

Here is a list of the primary functions and responsibilities that a construction cost estimator in Australia is responsible for:

The project’s specifications, drawings, and plans should be reviewed in order to ascertain the extent of the project and the requirements for the materials. To estimate the quantities of materials, labour, equipment, and other components that will be required for a project, break it down into its component parts. In order to determine the costs of labour, materials, and equipment, it is necessary to obtain quotes from subcontractors and suppliers. Make use of estimation methods and software in order to compute the total costs of the project, which should include both direct and indirect costs. In order to provide support for the estimates, you should prepare detailed cost estimates and provide backup documentation.

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Clients or management should be presented with estimates, and recommendations should be made to ensure that estimates are in line with budgets. Input from value engineering should be provided in order to discover solutions that will reduce project costs while preserving quality and scope. Provide assistance with the preparation of tenders and contracts, the evaluation of bids, and the awarding of contracts. Maintain a continuous practice of updating estimates in response to changes in project plans and monitoring costs as the project moves forward. Maintain an awareness of the market conditions, as well as the costs of construction, the materials, the availability of labour, and the building codes. Throughout the entirety of the construction process, maintain close collaboration with project managers, engineers, architects, and tradespeople. Ensure that the tracking of budgets and estimates adheres to the standards and best practices of the company as well as the industry.

Skills and Qualifications of a Construction Estimator

For the purpose of conducting research on the costs of materials and labour and preparing detailed estimates, estimators require strong analytical skills, as was mentioned earlier. In addition to being able to juggle multiple tasks within predetermined time constraints, they must have excellent time management skills. Because of the volume of information that they manage, having skills in computer and administrative work is also essential. When it comes to education, cost estimators typically need to have a high school diploma or a bachelor’s degree in engineering, quantity surveying, or construction management or construction management. There is also the possibility that a certificate or diploma in building and construction from a vocational education programme could be accepted.

Degree and diploma programmes should cover topics like:

• Cost estimation and methods
• Math
• Statistics
• Building codes
• Estimation
• Accounting
• Engineering economics
• Construction management

Master’s degrees are sometimes required for senior roles or to work for large construction firms.

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What Does a Quantity Surveyor Do?

Quantity surveyors are highly trained professionals in the construction industry who act as consultants for business owners and managers. In addition to this, the Australian Tax Office acknowledges them as one of the few professionals who are qualified to provide tax depreciation advice.

Quantity Surveyors are professionals who are accountable for managing not only the overall cost of construction projects but also all of their individual components. This includes tasks such as preparing cost plans, valuations, and estimates, as well as managing contracts. Additionally, it encompasses initial estimates and final accounts among other responsibilities. In addition to this, they will offer guidance on matters pertaining to contracts, finances, and the law.

Roles and Responsibilities in Construction Projects 

A quantity surveyor in Australia is responsible for a number of important roles and responsibilities, including the following:

Estimating the costs of construction projects, which may include the cost of materials, labour, and equipment, among other things. The preparation of schedules, cost plans, and bills of quantities respectively evaluating bids and making suggestions regarding the awarding of contracts. Providing management and control of costs throughout the construction process. Offering guidance on matters pertaining to construction-related planning, procurement, and contractual issues. Providing assistance in the processes of preparing feasibility studies for projects. Achieving whole-life costing and performing life cycle cost analyses. Performing due diligence on properties for the purposes of valuations and acquisitions, as well as preparing tax depreciation schedules and acting as an expert on property depreciation. Providing guidance on environmentally responsible building development and construction. Achieving compliance with regulations, codes, and standards in the construction industry.

Quantity surveyors, in their capacity as experts in property depreciation, make use of their knowledge of construction and their expertise in costing in order to maximise the amount of depreciation deductions that investors receive. Among these processes is the preparation of depreciation schedules, which detail the construction costs and anticipated decreases in value over the course of time for the structure and fixed assets that are contained within a property. Improving investment property returns can be accomplished by making the most of these tax deductions. Quantity surveyors, in general, play an important part in the management of construction projects, the planning of costs, and the management of commercial enterprises. Due to their extensive knowledge in areas such as construction, tax depreciation, and regulations, they are considered to be important advisors throughout the entirety of the property lifecycle.

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Skills and Qualifications of a Quantity Surveyor

Quantity surveyors are required to possess professional experience in addition to a tertiary degree in a field that is related to their work. Additionally, as a requirement, membership in professional organisations such as the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS) is frequently required. In addition to the formal qualifications, they need to have a comprehensive understanding of construction projects, the management of costs, and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Common Ground: The Similarities

The objective of both quantity surveyors and estimators is to ensure that projects are carried out without any hiccups. Both contribute to the creation of reliable and accurate estimates, which in turn reduces the financial risks that project managers face and provides them with greater cost control. This, in turn, assists builders in delivering projects within the budget and time constraints that were established.

The Differences That Set Them Apart

Estimators and quantity surveyors have some similarities, but there are also significant differences between the two.

The projects that they work on Quantity surveyors frequently deal with projects that are more complicated and extensive, particularly in the public and private sectors. On the other hand, estimators are involved in residential and smaller commercial projects more frequently than they are in larger commercial projects. Before everything else: Estimators in the construction industry are primarily concerned with providing precise and timely cost estimates in order to secure bids. It is the responsibility of quantity surveyors to provide the bill of quantities (BOQ) and to monitor construction costs throughout the lifecycle of the project. The roles that they play: The services of quantity surveyors are available prior to, during, and after the completion of a construction project. Estimators, on the other hand, are often involved in the tendering phase of a project, which occurs before the project actually begins. Quantity surveyors are qualified to provide depreciation schedules, whereas estimators are not. This pertains to tax depreciation.

Quantity surveyors have a more comprehensive advisory function across the entire property and construction lifecycle, despite the fact that both roles involve the process of calculation of construction costs. As a result of their expertise in areas such as tax depreciation, their role is further differentiated from that of estimators, who are more focused on tenders.

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Benefits of using Quantity Surveyor and Estimator

The following are some of the advantages that the construction industry can reap from employing quantity surveyors and estimators:

They are experts in cost management, and as such, they are able to assist you in identifying opportunities to save money on costs, as well as in negotiating better deals with suppliers and managing change orders in order to reduce cost overruns wherever possible. Quantity Surveyors and Estimators make use of specialised software and tools in order to prepare detailed cost estimates, which brings about an improvement in accuracy. The accuracy of budget projections can be improved with their assistance, and they can also guarantee that all projects will be finished on time and without exceeding the allotted budget.

Quantity Surveyors will assist in the management of the financial aspects of a project, ensuring that it remains within its budget, and providing regular progress reports to the stakeholders of the project. This will result in improved project management. Quantity Surveyors and Estimators are able to assist in the identification and mitigation of potential risks regarding risk management. These risks include cost overruns and delays. In addition to this, they will make certain that the projects are finished on time and without exceeding the budget.

Quantity Surveyors are experts in the legal and regulatory aspects of construction, and they are responsible for ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. They have the ability to guarantee that projects are in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations. Management of claims and disputes: Quantity Surveyors are able to assist in the management of claims and disputes that may occur during the construction process. This will ensure that projects are finished on time and within the allotted budget. Quantity Surveyors and Estimators work closely with architects, engineers, and other construction professionals during the construction process. This allows for improved communication and collaboration. Throughout the entirety of the project, they will contribute to the improvement of communication and collaboration.

Key Takeaways

Quantity surveyors are responsible for managing costs throughout the construction lifecycle, whereas estimators are primarily concerned with providing initial cost estimates in order to secure project tenders. Quantity surveyors are responsible for larger and more complex projects, particularly in the public and private sectors. Estimators, on the other hand, typically work on residential and small commercial projects. While quantity surveyors are primarily involved in pre-construction activities, estimators are responsible for a wider range of advisory responsibilities throughout the entire lifecycle of a property, including the preparation of tax depreciation schedules. Although both contribute to the creation of accurate cost estimates, quantity surveyors are also responsible for monitoring budgets throughout the construction process and possess specialised knowledge, such as on tax depreciation.

Conclusion

Entri’s Quantity Surveying Course emerges as an invaluable resource, providing in-depth insights into the fundamentals and technical aspects of Quantity Surveying. The meticulously crafted curriculum, designed by an expert team, ensures that you acquire the necessary skills for success in this field. With experienced faculties guiding you every step of the way, Entri App becomes your partner in advancing your career. Seize the opportunity to build a stable and prosperous future in Quantity Surveying by joining Entri App today!

Become a certified Quantity Surveyor! Enroll Here!

Become a certified Quantity Surveyor! Enroll Here!