What’s the difference between a private quantity surveyor and a commercial quantity surveyor – and how do you choose the right path?

Working with a mix of private residential clients and commercial residential clients means we need the expertise of two different types of quantity surveyor in the Hawes Construction Group team. At face value, the difference might not seem that notable. Yet each requires a specific knowledge, an individual approach, and a different level of skill. 

There’s a real blend of talent in our team, and it’s always enjoyable for us to learn how and why different construction specialists choose different paths. For our T-level student, Marley, her placement with us, combined with her classroom studies, has helped her decide which type of quantity surveyor she wants to be. But what’s the difference between the two primary quantity surveyor types – and why does it matter? 

What’s the role of a private quantity surveyor? 

Private quantity surveyors typically work on the client side of the project. If you’re planning a private dwelling renovation (for example a loft conversion, new build, or extension), a private quantity surveyor will come in and engage with you directly. This means they usually forecast costs before work begins, advising clients on cost-planning and how to mitigate risk. 

They’ll be there in a formal capacity, often beginning work from the pre-conception stage to get to grips with every detail of a single, focussed project or scheme of work. Therefore, a private quantity surveyor usually has great relationship-building skills, strong knowledge of building regulations, and a good balance of practicality and empathy.  

What does a commercial quantity surveyor do? 

A commercial quantity surveyor tends to work for the building contractor themselves, and thus as part of a wider or larger project. They often work in a more informal way as part of the broader build team, getting involved with pricing as well as the more physical, practical work.  

You’re likely to encounter a commercial quantity surveyor for a large scale project. That might include a retail development scheme or infrastructure works, where budgets and complexities are greater. Project management and procurement skills are vital, as is team leadership to successfully manage subcontractors and keep on top of project finances to share information with the client.  

How can you decide which type of quantity surveyor you’d like to be?  

If you’ve read our recent blog post, you’ll know we’ve welcomed T-level student, Marley, for her industry placement here at Hawes Construction Group.  

T-levels (the new post-GCSE qualification, equivalent to three A levels) combine practical work experience with classroom learning. For construction-based studies, they help students understand the contract administration, skills and expectations of both types of quantity surveyors, covering everything from construction law to managing documents, as well as practical skills. These include site-based skills (such as taking measurements and assessing existing structures), client-liaison skills (for example, managing expectations and explaining budgets) and technical skills (like basic CAD drawings, condition reports and cost-analysis software).  

Which type of quantity surveying has Marley chosen? 

Marley is finding the broad learning opportunities available through the T-level qualification and her industry placement with us has helped her narrow down the type of quantity surveyor she wishes to be.  

She’s discovered a preference for the commercial quantity surveyor strand, enjoying the physical tasks working alongside others and really getting stuck into the practical aspects of client projects.  

“Working at Hawes has been a really good experience and I am definitely enjoying it. I get lots of tasks to do, and I can go onsite and see projects as they progress. It’s great having the opportunity to learn from industry professionals. It’s also a really comfortable, relaxed environment, and everyone is very nice and friendly.” 

We’re always championing the next generation here at Hawes Construction Group. If you’re working towards your T-level qualifications and are keen to decide which quantity surveying route is right for you, follow Marley’s journey with us over on our blog or look out for our MD Sarra’s upcoming careers talks.