Frequently Asked Questions

A quantity surveyor manages the cost and commercial aspects of a construction project. That includes measuring works and preparing bills of quantities, producing cost estimates and budgets, advising on procurement, evaluating tenders, valuing work in progress, assessing variations, administering the contract and settling the final account. In short: a QS ensures a project is accurately priced, properly controlled and fairly settled.

The terms overlap considerably and are often used interchangeably. Traditionally, quantity surveying emphasises measurement and contractual administration, while cost consultancy emphasises strategic cost advice, planning and control. Brickwise provides both as an integrated service, because in practice the two are inseparable.

As early as possible — ideally at feasibility, before design commences. The decisions taken earliest have the greatest influence on final cost, and early cost input prevents schemes developing beyond what the budget can support. That said, Brickwise can be appointed at any stage, including mid-delivery or where a project is already in commercial difficulty.

Both. We act for developers, asset owners, government entities, main contractors, subcontractors, consultants and project management firms. Our role and emphasis adjust according to whom we represent, but our professional standards and the independence of our assessments do not.

We measure to NRM2 (RICS New Rules of Measurement 2), POMI (Principles of Measurement International) and CESMM4 for civil engineering works. We also work to regional standard methods and bespoke employer-defined measurement rules where a contract requires it.

We administer FIDIC contracts across the standard suite, bespoke employer contracts common across the GCC, and regional standard forms. Our team is experienced in the amended FIDIC forms typically used on major Saudi and GCC programmes.

Yes. We are frequently engaged mid-delivery — where cost is escalating, commercial control has weakened, a dispute is emerging or additional capability is required. We begin with a review of the current commercial position and establish control from that point forward.

Fees are structured to suit the engagement. Common arrangements include a fixed fee for a defined scope, a percentage of construction value for full lifecycle appointments, time-based rates for advisory or claims work, and retained monthly fees for ongoing commercial support. We provide a clear fee proposal before any work commences.

Yes. We deliver across the GCC — including the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait — and support international projects, adapting to local standards and contractual requirements.

This depends on scope and scale. For most engagements we can begin preliminary work within days of appointment. Where a project is in commercial difficulty and requires urgent intervention, we prioritise accordingly.

Yes. We produce measurement from 2D drawings, BIM models or a combination. Where information is incomplete we state our assumptions explicitly and identify the items requiring clarification, so the pricing document remains transparent about what it does and does not cover.

An effective cost report states the current committed position, the anticipated final cost, the variance from budget, the reasons for that variance and a recommended course of action. Reports that present numbers without explanation or recommendation offer little value. Ours are prepared to support decisions, not merely to record history.