Quantity surveying is a profession that requires highly specialized knowledge and skills. It is an integral part of the construction industry, as it involves providing cost management services to clients throughout the entire life cycle of a project. If you are considering entering this field, then this article will provide you with valuable information on how to become a quantity surveyor. We will discuss the educational requirements for becoming a quantity surveyor, different career paths available in the field, and other important steps you need to take to begin your journey towards becoming one.
What is Quantity Surveying?
Quantity Surveying is a specialized field of surveying that deals with measuring, estimating, and cost planning of construction projects. They works to ensure that a project's budget remains within the set limits while meeting quality standards. They are also responsible for managing contracts and ensuring timely payments to suppliers and contractors.
The job of a Quantity Surveyor includes providing advice on contractual issues, preparing cost estimates for materials and labor, taking off measurements from drawings and plans, checking the accuracy of bills of quantities provided by contractors and subcontractors, valuing variations in work carried out on site, preparing interim payment certificates for work completed by contractors or subcontractors, assessing claims from contractors or subcontractors for additional payment due to increased costs associated with changes in scope or delays in completion of a particular contract item.
Step 1: Qualifications Needed
The first step to becoming a Quantity Surveying is having the necessary qualifications. Generally, a degree in Quantity Surveying or related field such as Construction Management or Civil Engineering is required. A relevant postgraduate qualification may also be beneficial, although this isn’t always essential.
Depending on the country and particular job role, additional qualifications may be required such as membership for professional bodies like the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
Applicants should also have strong numeracy skills alongside excellent written and verbal communication; the ability to read plans accurately and interpret data quickly is fundamental. Additionally, having experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software can be advantageous when it comes to visualizing designs and providing technical drawings. They should also have good interpersonal skills which are useful when dealing with clients, tendering contractors, and negotiating contracts.
Step 2: Finding a Course
Once a person has decided to pursue a career in quantity surveying, the next step is to find an appropriate course of study. There are many accredited universities and colleges that offer degree programs in quantity surveying. The best way to determine which program is right for you is to compare the curriculum and learning opportunities offered by different schools.
When researching academic options, it's important to consider the institution's accreditation status, faculty experience, cost of tuition and fees, classroom size and specializations available within the program.
In addition to traditional on-campus courses, there are also online programs available for those who need more flexibility or cannot attend college full-time. Online programs can be just as rigorous as their on-campus counterparts and often provide students with access to hands-on learning opportunities through virtual simulations or team projects led by experienced faculty members.
Step 3: Getting Experience
The next step in becoming a quantity surveyor is to gain some experience. This can be achieved through an apprenticeship, traineeship, or internship. Apprenticeships will usually involve working with an experienced surveyor who you can learn from, and this can help you to build up your knowledge, skills and confidence. As part of the apprenticeship, you may also can study for a relevant qualification such as a diploma or certificate in quantity surveying.
Traineeships are another way to get some experience in the field and they often involve college-based study combined with practical on-the-job training. These can be very helpful when it comes to taking those first steps into a career as they will give you the chance to gain valuable experience while also developing your professional qualifications and understanding of the role of a quantity surveyor.
Step 4: Professional Accreditation
Professional accreditation is often required to practice as a quantity surveyor in certain countries and jurisdictions. The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), for example, offers an internationally recognized qualification for quantity surveying professionals.
To become accredited by RICS, aspiring quantity surveyors must pass their Assessment of Professional Competence (APC). This assessment involves completing a portfolio that demonstrates knowledge and skills in the areas of management, law, finance, and economics. Successful completion of the APC requires detailed preparation and research into the requirements set out by RICS, including attendance at lectures and seminars on professional development topics. Once an individual has achieved accreditation status through RICS or another organization they can start practicing as a professional quantity surveyor in accordance with local regulations.
Step 5: Continuing Education
Continuing education is a key component of becoming a quantity surveyor. After completing their degree and getting the necessary experience, continuing education helps keep skills up-to-date and in line with new technologies used in the field. This can include taking additional classes or workshops related to particular skills needed for the job, such as CAD software, contract law, or risk management techniques. Furthermore, staying informed about changes to relevant laws and regulations is important for any practicing quantity surveyor.
To stay ahead of the competition and expand knowledge base, many quantity surveyors also benefit from attending professional conferences related to their profession. These conferences often provide opportunities to network with other professionals as well as gain access to journals that may not be readily available elsewhere. Many employers prefer applicants who have attended at least one conference or workshop in order to demonstrate their commitment to keeping up with industry standards.
Conclusion:
Becoming a quantity surveyor is a challenging and rewarding career path. It requires extensive study and experience in construction, engineering, economics and other related fields. However, the end result of excellent job performance can bring both financial remuneration as well as professional satisfaction.
Upon completing all necessary training requirements, those interested in this profession will be able to work in an exciting area where they can make a difference in the way buildings are constructed and managed.
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