How to Become a Quantity Surveyor

If you want to know ‘’ How to become a Quantity Surveyor ’’, then this article can help you choose the path to build your career in the surveying industry. Quantity Surveying is a study that focuses on the estimation of construction costs and managing of contracts. The skills of a quantity surveyor are highly demanded in the industry. It is essential to hire a quantity surveyor while conducting a large-scale project. There are many risks and challenges a construction team will face when undertaking a project. Quantity surveyors are hired to ensure that the costs related to risks such as occupational hazards, excessive materials, and delays are avoided. Quantity surveyors are also responsible for ensuring that the project sticks to the budget and delivers the project on time. However, when a construction plan does not progress accordingly, quantity surveyors act as a financial advisor and manage the contracts when disputes arise. The professionals who possess a qualification which is recognised and acknowledged in the industry also benefit from higher salary opportunities and the chance to explore a diverse range of options while advancing in the industry.

Before we dive right into the qualification suitable for the job, let us take a look at why you should consider the profession?

• The job is always on-demand. Professionals working in the construction sector often face challenges when it comes to managing the costs and contracts of the project, which is why the demand for professionals who possess an adequate amount of knowledge to be competent in the workplace is high. Many employers search for quantity surveyors who possess the experience in handling a JCT Contract as well.
  


• Possessing skills in the industry will help you to enter different fields of work. Employers recognise the transferable skills that come with experience.


• Training to become a quantity surveyor is not long compared to other construction professions such as becoming an architect. If you don't possess a degree that will qualify you in the field of work, then you can apply for an apprenticeship scheme or NVQ Levels to apply for the job role. With a vocational qualification, the candidate can progress towards achieving a degree in the field of surveying.
  


• Diversity in jobs. Once you become a quantity surveyor, you can work in a diverse working environment in the industry. You can also work in the development, management or valuation sector.


• Building career progression – you can also advance towards becoming a project manager or construction development manager and work directly with clients. The option to switch professions is also available in the industry. Candidates who possess the qualifications suitable to work in the construction surveying sector can also apply for other senior management job roles. However, there are some points that you should consider before accepting the challenge of switching professions: the change of work in the industry, salary change and job security.

How to become a Quantity Surveyor with qualifications

Many recognised qualifications can lead an individual to become a professional quantity surveyor successfully. Some of which are:

1. Advanced Diploma in Quantity Surveying – the Level 5 course provided by the
   College of Contract Management an online course provider, is a suitable course for any candidate learning to become a quantity surveyor in the built environment sector. The course provides the fundamental knowledge on surveying and offers an opportunity to higher education levels such as a bachelor’s degree.


2. RICS accredited degree – The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors is a professional awarding body promoting qualifications for land, property and construction sector. RICS provides certificate, undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications for quantity surveying. Candidates can search for a course provider through the RICS Online Academy or RICS website. With an RICS accredited degree, a candidate can progress towards becoming a chartered member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. MRICS is the highest-ranking qualification in the construction industry. A candidate can apply for the RICS APC assessment and qualify as a chartered surveyor in the industry.


3. NVQ Courses – a candidate can also qualify as a professional quantity surveyor with an NVQ Level 6 Diploma in Construction Site Management or an NVQ level 7 qualification. The Level 6 qualification provides a direct entry to become an Associate Member of RICS.