How to Learn Quantity Surveying

Quantity surveying is an essential skill for anyone looking to become a professional in the field of construction and building. It involves calculating costs and managing finances related to a project. Learning quantity surveying can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and guidance, it's possible to gain proficiency in this field quickly.

In this article, we'll take a look at some tips on how to learn quantity surveying effectively. We'll examine how best to prepare yourself for study, what resources are available to help you learn, and ways you can ensure that your learning is successful.

What is Quantity Surveying?

Quantity surveying is the process of managing and monitoring costs related to construction projects. It requires a deep understanding of building materials, labor costs, and financial management skills. They are responsible for providing accurate cost estimates and tracking changes throughout the project. This helps ensure that a project comes in on budget while meeting all contractual requirements.

They also oversee contracts between contractors and clients, ensuring that all parties are held accountable for their work commitments. They review contract documents for accuracy before any work begins, helping protect both parties from legal issues down the line.

Additionally, It might be involved in preparing progress reports to track the progress of a project or managing change orders to reflect any new decisions made during construction.

Overall, quantity surveying is an important part of any building or construction project that helps keep everything running smoothly and on budget from start to finish.

Education Requirements

Quantity surveying is a profession that requires specialized knowledge and skills. To become a quantity surveyor, an individual must first meet certain educational requirements.

In order to be considered for a position as a quantity surveyor, applicants typically need to have at least obtained an undergraduate degree in the field of quantity surveying. This four-year degree program covers topics such as construction law, cost estimation and management, construction contracts, building regulations and design principles. Additionally, some employers may also require individuals to hold professional qualifications or certifications from relevant regulatory bodies like the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

Many universities and colleges offer courses in quantity surveying which provide students with an opportunity to gain hands-on experience through internships or other projects.

Qualifications & Licensing

Becoming a qualified quantity surveyor requires education and training. Those interested in learning the trade will need to obtain either an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Most programs offer courses in construction principles, property law, mathematics, statistics and computer modelling. Additionally, many colleges provide opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships with professional firms.

After graduation, aspiring quantity surveyors must also be licensed by their state or local jurisdiction before they can practice professionally. To qualify for a license they must typically pass an exam that assesses both their understanding of the profession and their ability to apply what they have learned. Qualifying tests may include questions related to contract management, cost estimation, project scheduling and more.

Developing Expertise

Developing expertise in quantity surveying takes time and dedication. Students should be prepared to engage in long-term study, with plenty of practice and repetition to become a master of the field. A good start is to find an accredited institution that offers quality learning materials, such as online courses or tutorials.

Reviews from past students can help you decide on the best course for your needs. Additionally, it’s important to build hands-on experience by taking part in internships or apprenticeships through local construction companies and firms. This will provide an opportunity to work with professionals who are currently using this knowledge in their day-to-day operations.

Networking & Mentoring

Networking and mentoring are important components of learning quantity surveying. Building relationships with other professionals in the industry allows for students to learn from experienced practitioners who can provide insight into the latest developments, trends, and best practices in quantity surveying. Additionally, networking provides opportunities to strengthen connections within their professional community and expand the potential for future job or career prospects.

Mentoring is another great way to advance learning in quantity surveying by allowing students to work alongside an experienced practitioner one-on-one. Through mentorship, individuals can develop a better understanding of how to apply concepts learned in the classroom through practical experience and guidance from a mentor. Furthermore, mentors also offer valuable advice on navigating career paths so that students are better prepared as they transition into their professional expeditions.

Starting a QS Career

At the end of the day, starting a career in quantity surveying is no easy task. It takes dedication and hard work to first gain an education in the field, followed by gaining experience through internships and apprenticeships. However, with this work comes great reward. By becoming a quantity surveyor, you can expect to enjoy job security with opportunities for promotions or career advancements within the field.

You will also have opportunities to travel as many quantity surveyors are often called upon to inspect and analyze construction sites all over the world. Plus, you can look forward to earning a competitive salary that increases with experience and expertise in the field. All in all, becoming a successful quantity surveyor requires discipline and commitment but it is well worth it!