20 Commonly Asked

Technical Questions and

Answers for
Quantity Surveyors

Prepared By:-
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
Quantity Surveyor / Contracts Administrator
B.Sc (Hons) QS (UK)
 Question 01
Can you explain the role of a Quantity
Surveyor in a construction project?
Model Answer
As a Quantity Surveyor, my primary role is to manage
all aspects of the contractual and financial side of
construction projects. This includes cost estimation,
cost planning, and cost control, ensuring projects are
completed within their financial limits. I am responsible
for preparing tender documents, negotiating
contracts, and managing costs during the
construction phase to ensure the project is profitable
and within budget.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 02
How do you determine the cost
estimates for a construction project?
Model Answer
I start by analyzing the project plans and
specifications. I then break down the project into
its constituent parts and estimate the costs for
materials, labor, equipment, and other resources. I
also consider local market rates and historical
data from similar projects in Dubai to ensure my
estimates are accurate.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 03
What methods do you use for cost
planning and cost control?
Model Answer
I use a combination of elemental cost planning
and activity-based costing. For cost control, I
regularly monitor actual costs against budgeted
costs, using software tools to track progress and
identify any variances. This allows me to take
corrective actions promptly to keep the project on
budget.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 04
How do you manage budget overruns in
a project?
Model Answer
I proactively monitor expenditures and implement
cost control measures. If a budget overrun is
identified, I investigate the cause and work with the
project team to find solutions, such as value
engineering or negotiating better rates with suppliers
and subcontractors. Regular communication with
stakeholders is crucial to manage their expectations
and agree on necessary adjustments.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 05
Explain the process of tendering and
procurement.
Model Answer
The tendering process involves preparing tender
documents, inviting bids from contractors,
evaluating the bids based on predefined criteria,
and selecting the most suitable contractor.
Procurement involves acquiring goods and
services needed for the project. This includes
negotiating terms, finalizing contracts, and
ensuring timely delivery of materials and services.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 06
What experience do you have with
contract administration?
Model Answer
I have extensive experience in contract
administration, including drafting and reviewing
contracts, ensuring compliance with contractual
terms, managing variations and claims, and
handling disputes. My role also involves ensuring
that all parties meet their contractual obligations
and that payments are made as per the agreed
terms.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 07
How do you handle variations in a
construction contract?
Model Answer
Variations are managed by thoroughly reviewing
the change requests, assessing their impact on
cost and schedule, and obtaining approval from
the client before implementation. I document all
variations and adjust the contract sum
accordingly, ensuring all changes are agreed
upon and recorded properly.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 08
Can you describe a time when you identified
cost-saving opportunities in a project?
Model Answer
On a residential project in Dubai, I identified that
using a different supplier for certain materials
could result in significant cost savings without
compromising quality. After negotiating with the
new supplier, we managed to reduce material
costs by 10%, which contributed to staying within
the project budget.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 09
What software tools do you use for
quantity surveying?
Model Answer
I regularly use software tools such as CostX,
PlanSwift, and Bluebeam for measurement and
estimation. For cost control and project
management, I use Primavera and Microsoft
Project. These tools help streamline the estimating
and cost management processes, ensuring
accuracy and efficiency.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 10
How do you ensure accuracy in your
measurements and calculations?
Model Answer
I ensure accuracy by following standard
measurement practices and double-checking my
calculations. I use software tools that minimize
human error and cross-reference my work with
colleagues when necessary. Regular audits and
reviews of my work also help maintain high
accuracy standards.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 11
Explain the difference between a Bill of
Quantities and a Schedule of Rates.
Model Answer
A Bill of Quantities (BOQ) is a detailed document that
lists the quantities of all the materials, labor, and
services required for a construction project. It provides
a breakdown of costs based on measurements from
the project plans. A Schedule of Rates, on the other
hand, lists the unit rates for various construction
activities and materials. It is used to price work based
on pre-agreed rates without detailed measurement.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 12
How do you conduct a feasibility study
for a construction project?
Model Answer
A feasibility study involves evaluating the project's
potential by analyzing various factors such as
cost, time, site conditions, legal constraints, and
market demand. I prepare a detailed cost
estimate, analyze the financial viability, and
assess risks and opportunities. This study helps
stakeholders decide whether to proceed with the
project.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 13
What is your experience with value
engineering?
Model Answer
I have applied value engineering on several projects
to optimize costs and improve project value. This
involves analyzing project functions, identifying cost-
saving opportunities, and proposing alternative
solutions that meet the same requirements at a lower
cost. For example, I have suggested alternative
materials or construction methods that provide the
same quality and performance but at a reduced cost.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 14
How do you approach risk management
in a project?
Model Answer
Risk management involves identifying potential
risks early, assessing their impact, and developing
mitigation strategies. I conduct risk assessments
regularly and maintain a risk register to track and
manage risks throughout the project. I also
collaborate with the project team to develop
contingency plans and monitor risk factors
continuously.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 15
Describe a challenging project you have
worked on and how you managed it.
Model Answer
One challenging project was a commercial building
in Dubai with a tight deadline and budget constraints. I
managed it by implementing rigorous cost control
measures, conducting regular progress reviews, and
ensuring clear communication with all stakeholders.
By proactively addressing issues and optimizing
resource allocation, we completed the project on
time and within budget.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 16
How do you ensure compliance with relevant
laws and regulations in construction?
Model Answer
I stay updated with local building codes,
standards, and regulations by regularly attending
industry seminars and training sessions. I also work
closely with legal and regulatory experts to ensure
all aspects of the project comply with the
necessary laws and regulations. Regular audits
and inspections help maintain compliance
throughout the project.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 17
Can you explain the different types of
construction contracts?
Model Answer
There are several types of construction contracts,
including lump-sum contracts, where the contractor
agrees to complete the project for a fixed price; cost-
plus contracts, where the contractor is reimbursed for
actual costs plus a fee; and unit price contracts,
where payment is based on agreed unit rates for
different work items. Each type has its advantages and
is chosen based on the project's nature and
requirements.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 18
How do you manage subcontractor
performance and payments?
Model Answer
I manage subcontractor performance by setting clear
expectations, monitoring progress, and conducting
regular site inspections. Payments are managed by
verifying completed work against agreed milestones
and ensuring that all documentation is in place before
releasing payments. This helps maintain cash flow and
ensures subcontractors are motivated to meet quality
and schedule requirements.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 19
What is your approach to handling
disputes in a construction project?
Model Answer
I handle disputes by addressing them promptly
and fairly. I start by reviewing the contract terms
and discussing the issue with the involved parties
to understand their perspectives. I aim to find a
mutually acceptable solution through negotiation.
If necessary, I involve legal experts or consider
alternative dispute resolution methods, such as
mediation or arbitration.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran
 Question 20
How do you prepare a final account for
a project?
Model Answer
Preparing a final account involves reconciling all
project costs, including variations, claims, and
adjustments. I review all documentation, verify
quantities and rates, and ensure all payments and
deductions are accounted for. I then prepare a
detailed final account statement and discuss it
with the client and contractor to agree on the final
settlement.
Mohamed Firnas Jafran