As a contractor, you know the key to a successful site is communication and a reliable team.
Of course, everyone has their own way of approaching things. Your contractors QS and the client’s QS have their own opinions.
How you handle this and build a relationship with the client’s QS from day one is crucial.
If there’s even a hint of ambiguity, the client’s QS won’t trust you or your QS’s measures or costs, creating tension throughout the project to final account.
How to Gain the Respect of the Client’s QS.
- Consistent Communication
Regular updates and open lines of communication are crucial. This keeps everyone on the same page and reduces misunderstandings. - Don’t Hide Issues
Early notification of potential problems shows that you’re proactive and reliable rather than reactive and unreliable. - Be Upfront
We’re all doing our best at the end of the day. Being upfront and open from the start sets realistic expectations and builds mutual respect.
- Submit on Time
Submit your payment applications on time according to the payment schedule. This shows you’re organised and respect the client’s QS’s time. - Agree on Variations Quickly
Quick agreement on variations prevents last-minute surprises and arguments at final account stage.
- Fair and Accurate Costings
Provide fair and accurate costings for additional items to avoid any potential disagreements. - Meet on Site
Walk the site together to discuss the project and understand current progress, goals and any potential challenges.
A Case Study in What Not to Do
There was a main contractor whose outsourced QS didn’t gain the respect of the PQS for the following reasons:
- They were consistently late with payment applications.
- Only communicated by email and caused massive misunderstandings.
- Didn’t know the contract terms, which led to avoidable mistakes.
- Bullyboy tactics created hostility.
- Claimed for works not done which caused serious distrust.
- Overmeasuring made the QS sceptical of all data provided.
- Leaving issues unresolved only made everything worse.
- Piling on variations at the final account when they should have been agreed earlier.
These mistakes not only reduced payment claims, significantly impacting the contractor’s cash flow, but also put the contractor in the awkward position of mediating between the two QSs.
Ultimately, the contractor’s professionalism was called into question.
Conclusion
Focus on clear, consistent communication and transparency to build a successful and respectful relationship between you, your QS and the client’s QS. As a contractor, your reputation is important. Being known for your professionalism stands to you on every site. Don’t let miscommunication and avoidable misunderstandings get in the way of that.
To get the most out of your next project and build lasting relationships with your team, contact Carroll Estimating to successfully bring you from tender bid to final account.
