Quantity surveying is a field that combines technical knowledge, financial acumen, and project management skills. For students pursuing a career in quantity surveying, developing a comprehensive understanding of these diverse areas is crucial. Alongside formal education, books can be valuable resources, offering in-depth insights, practical techniques, and real-world applications that enhance academic learning.
We’ve curated a list of must-read books for quantity surveying students to help build expertise, expand knowledge, and stay informed on industry trends and best practices.
Why Books Matter for Quantity Surveying Students
Books provide a foundational understanding that complements coursework, equipping students with a deeper appreciation for both traditional techniques and modern advancements in the field. Whether covering basics or delving into specialized topics, these books can help students:
- Grasp core principles and methodologies
- Understand legal, financial, and contractual aspects
- Develop practical skills and technical knowledge
- Keep up with industry changes and digital transformations
With these advantages in mind, let’s dive into the must-read books that every quantity surveying student should have on their shelf.
Willis’s Practice and Procedure for the Quantity Surveyor
Authors:
Allan Ashworth and Keith Hogg
Why It’s Essential:
This book is a classic in the field of quantity surveying, widely used by students and professionals alike. It covers the roles, responsibilities, and procedures associated with quantity surveying and includes updated information on technological advancements and industry practices. It’s ideal for understanding how to manage project costs, assess risks, and handle contractual obligations.
Key Topics:
Professional roles and duties
Industry-standard procedures
Case studies on project management
Construction Contract Claims, Changes, and Dispute Resolution
Authors:
Paul Levin
Why It’s Essential:
Dispute resolution is a critical skill for quantity surveyors, and this book provides comprehensive insights into managing contract claims and resolving disputes in construction. Paul Levin’s guide is valuable for understanding contract law, managing change orders, and minimizing conflicts on projects. It’s an excellent reference for mastering legal aspects and practical dispute resolution strategies.
Key Topics:
Contract claims and management
Dispute resolution methods
Practical advice on change orders
Strategies for effective communication
Cost Studies of Buildings
Authors:
Allan Ashworth, Srinath Perera, and Andrew Duff
Why It’s Essential:
This book focuses on the cost aspects of construction projects, providing tools for effective cost estimation and financial management. With real-life examples, it emphasizes the importance of accurate cost analysis in project planning, resource allocation, and budget adherence. Quantity surveying students will find this an indispensable guide for mastering project costing.
Key Topics:
Cost estimation methods
Financial management in construction
Techniques for accurate budgeting
Case studies on cost analysis
New Aspects of Quantity Surveying Practice
Authors:
Duncan Cartlidge
Why It’s Essential:
This book explores the evolution of quantity surveying and the impact of modern technology on the industry. Duncan Cartlidge provides a fresh perspective on how quantity surveying practices have adapted over time and continue to change with advancements in digital tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM). It’s essential reading for students wanting to stay ahead in a technology-driven industry.
Key Topics:
Digital transformation in quantity surveying
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Modern quantity surveying practices
The role of data and analytics
Construction Project Manager’s Pocket Book
Authors:
Duncan Cartlidge
Why It’s Essential:
This pocket book is an easy-to-use reference for quantity surveying students interested in project management. It covers essential principles of construction project management, including scheduling, resource allocation, and risk management. The book’s compact format makes it ideal for quick reference on the job or during studies.
Key Topics:
Project scheduling and resource management
Risk assessment and mitigation
Tools for project planning
Strategies for effective project leadership
Construction Economics: A New Approach
Authors:
Danny Myers
Why It’s Essential:
Understanding construction economics is crucial for effective project planning and financial management. This book explains the economic principles that influence construction projects, from supply and demand to market trends and financing options. It provides students with a strong foundation in economic theory as it applies to construction, making it a valuable resource for quantity surveyors.
Key Topics:
Economic principles in construction
Market trends and demand analysis
Project financing and budgeting
Economic impact of construction projects
Construction Contracts: Law and Management
Authors:
John Murdoch and Will Hughes
Why It’s Essential:
This book is a must-read for quantity surveyors who need a solid understanding of contract law and management. It provides a detailed look at the legal frameworks, principles, and practices essential for contract administration in construction projects. With case studies and examples, students gain practical insights into contract negotiation, risk allocation, and compliance.
Key Topics:
Fundamentals of contract law
Risk management in contracts
Negotiation techniques
Case studies in construction law
The Aqua Group Guide to Procurement, Tendering, and Contract Administration
Authors:
Mark Hackett and Gary Statham
Why It’s Essential
This guide offers a detailed overview of procurement and contract administration, two critical areas for quantity surveyors. It provides step-by-step instructions on tendering and managing contracts, focusing on best practices to ensure project success. This book is particularly helpful for students interested in specializing in contract administration.
Key Topics:
Procurement and tendering processes
Contract administration techniques
Best practices for effective contract management
Legal and ethical considerations
Building Measurement
Authors:
Andrew D. Packer
Why It’s Essential:
Measurement is a core skill for quantity surveyors, and this book serves as a comprehensive guide to building measurement techniques. It provides practical insights into measurement methods, standards, and tools, making it essential reading for students looking to develop their technical measurement skills.
Key Topics:
Measurement techniques and standards
Practical applications of measurement
Tools for accurate measurement
Industry-standard measurement methods
Spon’s Architects’ and Builders’ Price Book
Publisher:
AECOM
Why It’s Essential:
Updated annually, Spon’s Price Book is an industry-standard reference for construction costs in the UK. It provides quantity surveyors with detailed pricing information for various construction tasks, materials, and labor. This book is especially useful for students needing accurate data for budgeting and cost estimation exercises.
Key Topics:
Current construction costs and pricing
Material and labor cost estimates
Budgeting and cost analysis
Industry standards and benchmarking
Building a Strong Knowledge Base in Quantity Surveying
These must-read books provide a strong foundation for quantity surveying students, covering everything from project costing and contract law to modern technologies and industry standards. Reading widely not only deepens understanding but also keeps students informed on industry trends, giving them a competitive edge as they enter the workforce. By building knowledge across different areas, students can develop a well-rounded skill set that prepares them for success in quantity surveying.
Ready to enhance your expertise in quantity surveying?
Enroll in our Quantity Surveying Course Online for comprehensive training, practical insights, and real-world applications tailored to aspiring quantity surveyors. Equip yourself with the skills needed to excel and stand out in this rewarding field. Start your journey today and take the first step toward a successful career in quantity surveying!
