Our Services
Quantity Surveying & Cost Management
Independent cost advice for projects of all sizes. We review contractor quotes, control variations, and give you a clear picture of what your project will actually cost — before you commit.
Get a QS EstimateWhat a Quantity Surveyor Does
A quantity surveyor is the financial control function on a construction project. Where an architect manages design and a structural engineer manages structure, the QS manages cost. They measure quantities, produce Bills of Quantities, check and compare contractor tenders, monitor expenditure against budget, and value variations as they arise on site.
On larger commercial and residential development projects, a QS is standard practice. On domestic projects — extensions, loft conversions, refurbishments — most homeowners skip this step, often to their cost. A single unchecked variation on a £80,000 extension can add £8,000 to £15,000 with no formal justification.
Dwellinger offers QS-level cost advice on residential and light commercial projects across London, from pre-tender estimates through to final account settlement.
Pre-Tender Estimates
Accurate elemental cost plans before you go to tender, so you know if your project is affordable before committing to design fees.
Tender Review & Analysis
We review contractor quotes line by line, identify gaps, anomalies and exclusions, and produce a comparative report so you can make an informed decision.
Variation Valuation
We assess and agree the cost of variations and change orders as they arise, preventing scope creep from turning into uncontrolled expenditure.
Final Account Settlement
We negotiate and agree the final account with your contractor, ensuring you only pay what is properly due under the contract.
Procurement Advice
Guidance on procurement route — fixed-price contract, cost-plus, schedule of rates — and which approach best suits your project risk profile.
Cost Reporting
Regular cost reports throughout the project, showing actual expenditure against budget, forecast final cost, and any emerging risks.
Why Independent QS Advice Protects You
Contractor quotes are not always comparable
Two quotes for the same project can differ by 30–50% depending on what is included and excluded. Without a QS review, you may be comparing a fully-inclusive price against one that excludes prelims, VAT, or key trade packages.
Variations are where projects go over budget
Most domestic projects run over budget not because of the original quote, but because of uncontrolled variations. A QS sets a formal process for agreeing changes before they are instructed.
Retentions and payment schedules need scrutiny
Payment terms, retention percentages and milestone definitions in construction contracts can significantly affect your cash flow and your ability to withhold payment if work is defective.
Final accounts are negotiable
Contractors routinely submit final accounts that include items not properly authorised or valued. A QS knows what to challenge and what to concede, and can recover their fee many times over in final account negotiations.
Who Uses Our QS Service?
Homeowners
Getting a rear extension, loft conversion or refurbishment and want independent assurance that your contractor quote is fair and complete.
Property Developers
Managing a residential conversion or development and need accurate cost plans, tender analysis and ongoing cost control throughout the project.
Investors & Landlords
Refurbishing a buy-to-let or HMO and want to protect your investment with independent cost advice and formal variation control.
Get a QS-Reviewed Estimate for Your Project
Start with our free calculator, then order a full QS review from £95 — a qualified surveyor checks every line before you commit to anything.
Start Your Estimate