What Is a Quantity Surveyor? 

A Quantity Surveyor (QS) is a construction cost expert who prepares detailed estimates and financial documentation for your building project. 


In this task, you're engaging a QS to provide a formal report that: 


  • Breaks down construction costs across all trades and materials 
  • Confirms your project meets minimum construction cost thresholds (often required for Council or Lenders) 
  • Can be used for Section 94 / 7.11 contributions, insurance purposes, or funding applications 


Their report is highly detailed and prepared in line with industry standards, and it’s often a requirement for larger or more complex projects. 

What does a Quantity Surveyor do?

Your Quantity Surveyor will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, a Quantity Surveyor will:

  • Review your architectural plans, specifications, and site documentation
  • Prepare a Detailed Cost Estimate that includes all projected construction costs — labour, materials, services, and allowances
  • Break down the total costs by trade (e.g. earthworks, framing, plumbing, finishes)
  • Compare your project costs with current market rates and flag potential overruns
  • Ensure the budget aligns with what banks or lenders typically require for finance approval
  • Produce a bank-compliant QS Report suitable for submission during your loan application
  • Review your subcontractors' progress payment claims to make sure they match the actual work done and the approved schedule
  • Communicate with you and any consultants to finalise changes or updates


This report is often essential if you're applying for construction finance — it gives banks confidence that your cost estimates are realistic and your project is financially viable​.

Tip: Choose the Right Quantity Surveyor (QS)

If your council or lender is asking for a QS Report, they’ll want it done professionally. Engage a QS who understands the compliance side of things, not just costings.

What to Look For in a  Quantity Surveyor

You’re looking for someone who:

  • Is certified and has experience with residential projects 
  • Can issue reports in approved council format 
  • Responds quickly and works to agreed timelines 
  • Understands your local council’s or lender’s documentation requirements 

 

Some QS firms specialise in large commercial projects — make sure you choose one who handles single residential builds. 

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Quantity Surveyors for a QS Report, you’ll need:

  • Finalised or near-final architectural plans (PDF format is fine)
  • A draft or confirmed Construction Cost Estimate (if you already have one)
  • Your approved DA or CDC
  • Site address and project type (e.g. new home, granny flat)
  • Confirmation of who needs the report (e.g. council, certifier, or bank)

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 3–5 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can’t I just give my own estimate?

    Not if it's for official use. While you may have your own spreadsheet, most councils and lenders will only accept a report from a qualified Quantity Surveyor — it’s a recognised, independent cost assessment.

  • Can the report be updated if I make changes later?

    Yes — if your plans or materials change, the Quantity Surveyor can revise your cost estimate to keep the report up to date. Just make sure to ask whether this is included in their quote or charged separately.

How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.