Why should I get a QS to price a job when my timber merchant can price them for me for free?

Great question — and one that many builders and homeowners ask. Here's a direct breakdown of why getting a Quantity Surveyor (QS) to price your job offers significant value beyond what a timber merchant or supplier quote can provide:

1. A QS Provides a Full-Scope, Independent Cost Breakdown

A timber merchant prices only materials they sell (e.g. framing, cladding, fixings).

A QS prices everything:

✔ Labour

✔ Subcontractors (electrical, plumbing, roofing, etc.)

✔ Materials across all trades

✔ Preliminaries (site setup, admin, insurances)

✔ Contingencies and margins

Result: A QS gives you a complete, build-ready estimate — not just a materials invoice.

2. Unbiased and Transparent

A merchant’s goal is to sell you more. A QS, however, is independent — working in your interest, not tied to a product or brand. This ensures you aren’t over-ordering or being upsold unnecessarily.

3. More Than Pricing: QSs Help You Manage Risk

A good QS can advise on:

• Cost planning

• Contracts and variations

• Budget tracking (back-costing)

• Tender evaluations

4. Better Tool for Managing Your Project

A QS estimate becomes your project budget, back-costing tool, and contract baseline.

You can use it to:

• Check quotes from subs

• Track actual vs budgeted spend

• Justify client charges or variation claims