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Quantity surveyor comparing JCT contract documents and drawings at a desk before selecting a procurement route

JCT Contract Types Explained: Which Form Is Right for Your Project?

JCT publishes seven main forms of building contract, and picking the wrong one is one of the most common - and costly - procurement mistakes in UK construction. This guide breaks down every JCT contract type and shows you exactly which one fits which project.

Date4 Sept 2026CategoryContracts & Law
A quantity surveyor reviewing project costs and drawings on a UK construction site

How Long Does It Take to Become a Quantity Surveyor in the UK?

Wondering how long it takes to become a quantity surveyor in the UK? Here is the honest timeline for every route, from a 6-7 year degree path to a 4-5 year apprenticeship, plus how the RICS APC fits in.

Date3 Sept 2026CategoryRoutes Into Surveying
A quantity surveyor reviewing an elemental cost plan and construction drawings in a UK office

Construction Cost Planning: A Complete QS Guide

Cost planning is the core discipline that sits behind every construction budget decision. This guide walks through the RIBA-stage cost plan journey, the elemental method, RICS NRM1 structure, contingency allowances and a full worked example - everything a QS needs to build a defensible cost plan.

Date2 Sept 2026CategorySkills & Practice
A quantity surveyor reviewing plans on a UK construction site during a morning walk-round.

A Day in the Life of a Quantity Surveyor (Realistic Expectations)

Forget the glossy job description. Here's a realistic, illustrative day in the life of a UK quantity surveyor - from the morning site walk to the last cost report email, and how contractor-side days differ from consultant-side ones.

Date1 Sept 2026CategoryCareer Development
A commercial manager and quantity surveyor reviewing a subcontractor claim submission and supporting records at a site office desk

How to Handle Subcontractor Claims as a Commercial Manager

Managing subcontractor claims UK: how commercial managers should assess loss and expense, extension of time and disruption claims, what evidence to demand, and when to settle versus reject.

Date30 Aug 2026CategoryContracts & Law

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