Early engagement is key !

If you are even considering using a QS for your next project, early engagement is key to avoid disappointment further down the track. It seems time and time again clients are engaging a Quantity Surveyor and Builder very late on in the design process.

We are often working alongside builders who have received plans from an architect with an unrealistic budget in mind. This can make life more difficult than it needs to be for both the builder and the QS.

Unfortunately, the plans are already in for consent and not once has anyone thought to get budgets completed to ensure the client can proceed based on the current scope of work.

We would always suggest that if a builder is contacted in the early stages that they suggest a high level estimate or budget costs are produced before their client spends more money on a design which isn't viable.

We have recently seen a design that was more than 20% over budget and with a client not willing to compromise on their end product this makes for a very awkward conversation to be had. This can often result in a cancelled project as the homeowner has already been ’sold the dream’.

We work with many architects and builders who insist on a preliminary budget estimate report at the concept stage. This is not only the cheapest QS report we produce but the client has yet to spend too much on more detailed plans for a project they simply can’t afford.

Speak to a QS sooner rather than later and protect your clients and yourselves !

Phone Paul on Ph. 027 238 1866, email : paul.watson@redqs.nz