At Wilkinson Cowan, we understand how important it is for clients to feel confident in their project team, especially when it comes to managing costs. Whether you’re planning a new development or navigating the complexities of refurbishment, choosing the right Quantity Surveyor (QS) is key to achieving value for money, minimising risk, and staying on track.
With so many moving parts in the construction process, your Quantity Surveyor should bring more than technical skill; they should offer clarity, foresight, and a genuine commitment to your project’s success. Below, we’ve outlined some of the most important questions to ask when selecting a QS, and shared how we approach each one.
1. What experience do you have in projects like mine?
Every project is different, and experience matters. A QS with the right sector knowledge will be better placed to anticipate challenges and offer cost-effective solutions.
Our approach:
Our team brings decades of experience across education, housing, public and private sector projects. Whether we’re working on a community-led regeneration project or a landmark institution like the Museum of Liverpool, we tailor our approach to suit the client’s specific goals, timelines and budget.
2. How do you ensure value for money throughout a project?
A good QS doesn’t just monitor costs, they actively seek opportunities to optimise them, without compromising on quality.
Our approach:
At WCP, value engineering and cost planning are at the heart of what we do. From feasibility studies to final account settlement, we’re focused on ensuring that every pound is accounted for and spent wisely.
3. What’s your process for managing risk and preventing disputes?
Construction projects can be complex. Your QS should play a central role in managing risk, reducing uncertainty, and keeping communication clear.
Our approach:
We help clients avoid costly misunderstandings by producing clear documentation – from initial estimates to bills of quantities and cash flow forecasts. Our transparent processes reduce the potential for disputes and allow all parties to move forward with confidence.
4. How do you keep clients informed during the project?
Good communication is essential. You should know when and how updates will be shared and feel confident your QS is accessible when needed.
Our approach:
We believe in open and consistent communication. Clients receive regular updates at agreed milestones, and we’re always available to answer questions or talk through options at any stage of the process.
5. Are you regulated and qualified?
A professionally qualified QS provides assurance that the work will meet industry standards and regulatory requirements.
Our approach:
All our Quantity Surveyors are professionally qualified and follow best practice in line with the latest industry regulations. We take compliance seriously; not just because it’s expected, but because it’s essential for safe, fair and successful project delivery.
Choosing the right Quantity Surveyor is about more than ticking boxes, it’s about finding a team that’s committed to delivering real value and working in partnership with you.
At Wilkinson Cowan Partnership, we pride ourselves on being transparent, responsive and reliable. If you’re planning a project and would like to discuss how we can support you, please get in touch via our Contact Us Page. We’d be happy to talk through your requirements and show how we can help bring your plans to life, on time and on budget.