There are two main types of quantity surveyor: one is the independent sur­veyor, normally employed by archi­tects, whose role is to cost out materi­als and labour and measure and value the progress of the building work. The other is often employed by building contractors. This type, as well as costing out the materials, labour, etc, will also check estimates and control the financial aspects of the con­tract. 

• have a good knowledge of the workings of the industry

• be able to read and interpret drawings

• be able to make accurate measurements and calculations

• be able to communicate effectively

• be prepared to work both on site as well as in an office.

Once the drawings, specifications, calculations and services have all been completed by the architect, documents must be prepared to en­able the tender process to begin. The quantity surveyor, with the aid of specially designed computer software, produces a'b仆I of quantities' - a description of the materials and labour needed for the construc­tion of a project, together with their Ruantity and unit price listed as numbered items. 

It is this document, together with the drawings, etc, that will be used by building contractors to prepare and submit their estimates for the construction of the proposed structure and which in turn, will identify who will get the contract- usually the lowest bid.