Why You Should Involve a Quantity Surveyor Early in the Design Stage

In my 15+ years as a Quantity Surveyor in the residential construction industry, I’ve seen it all too often: a client arrives with beautifully detailed plans they’ve spent $30,000 or more on—only to discover the build cost is double their budget. I have seen client paid $100+k for an architectural home.

REMEMBER - Designers design. Quantity Surveyors cost.

It’s surprisingly common—many clients ask their architect or designer for build cost advice, and take that as gospel, rather than consulting a Quantity Surveyor (QS). And they often believe they’re right to do so.

The reality is, while designers and architects are experts in creating functional and beautiful spaces, they aren’t cost specialists. Their focus is on design—not current market rates, construction methods, supplier pricing, or risk allowances. A QS, however, is trained specifically to forecast, analyse, and manage construction costs.

It’s not about undermining your designer—it’s about getting the right professional advice for the right aspect of your project. Designers design. Quantity Surveyors cost.

Involving a QS early ensures your design ambitions stay grounded in financial reality. Otherwise, you risk investing time and money into plans that may never get off the ground. Engaging a Quantity Surveyor (QS) early in the design phase can save you significant time, money, and stress.

Here’s why:

1. Accurate Budget Planning

A QS provides cost estimates based on concept designs, helping you understand what your project is likely to cost before committing to detailed plans. This prevents overdesigning beyond your budget.

2. Cost vs Design Advice

QS professionals collaborate with your architect or designer to balance your vision with your budget. They can suggest cost-effective alternatives for materials, construction methods, and finishes without compromising quality.

3. Avoiding Redesign Costs

If budget issues are discovered late in the process, redesigns may be necessary—costing both time and money. Early QS input keeps the design aligned with financial expectations from day one.

4. Identifying Hidden Costs

Siteworks, consents, demolition, temporary services—these are often overlooked in early budgeting. A QS factors in all project costs to avoid nasty surprises down the track.

5. Value Engineering

A QS can highlight areas where you’re potentially over-investing without return, helping you maximise value at every stage of the project.

6. Funding and Finance Confidence

If you’re working with a bank or financier, having a QS-prepared cost plan adds credibility to your project budget and can streamline funding approvals.

7. Reduced Project Risk

By understanding your costs upfront, you reduce the risk of cost overruns and project delays, increasing the likelihood of a smooth build process.

In Summary

A Quantity Surveyor acts as your financial advocate throughout the build process. By getting them involved at the concept stage, you gain clear visibility of your project costs early—giving you control over your budget and confidence in your decisions.

The earlier you engage a QS, the more value they can deliver. In New Zealand, a concept stage cost estimate - depending on project size - will set you between $1,500 to $6,000+ GST

At Tally Up Quantity Surveying, we’re here to help you make informed decisions from day one.

Let’s talk about cost before you go too far with your project—saving you time, money, and unnecessary redesigns.

Get in touch early, and build with confidence.

Thanks for reading!

Tally Up Quantity Surveying