top 13 books

Every industry has its publications that are held to that lofty status of go-to guides, and quantity surveying is no exception. Rather than spend valuable time weeding through the volumes that are available out there, we bring you some good books on construction claims that every good project professional has on their shelf.


Estimating and Costing in Civil Engineering by B.N. Dutta

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Considered a definitive guide in the field, “Estimating and Costing in Civil Engineering” by B.N. Dutta covers the fundamentals of quantity surveying, including accurate estimation techniques and cost control. It provides comprehensive coverage of various construction materials, labor costs, and rates, making it an indispensable resource for both students and professionals. The book also explores advanced topics such as valuation, tendering, and analysis of rates, making it a well-rounded reference for quantity surveyors.


Spon’s Civil Engineering and Highway Works Price Book by Davis Langdon

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A widely respected resource in the construction industry. It offers a comprehensive pricing guide for civil engineering and highway works, covering detailed cost data for a wide range of construction activities. The book provides up-to-date pricing information, cost analysis, and unit rates, making it an invaluable tool for accurate cost estimation in quantity surveying.


Quantity Surveyor’s Pocket Book by Duncan Cartlidge

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Duncan Cartlidge’s “Quantity Surveyor’s Pocket Book” is a handy reference that covers essential topics in quantity surveying. This compact guide provides quick access to key information on measurement, estimating, and cost management. It offers practical advice, measurement rules, and standard forms, making it an indispensable companion for quantity surveyors on the go. The book’s user-friendly format and concise explanations make it a valuable resource for students and professionals alike.

Construction Quantity Surveying: A Practical Guide for the Contractor’s QS by Donald Towey

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Focused specifically on the role of the Quantity Surveyor (QS) within a contracting organization, Donald Towey’s “Construction Quantity Surveying: A Practical Guide for the Contractor’s QS” offers practical insights and guidance. It covers essential areas such as cost control, procurement, and contract administration from the perspective of a contractor. The book provides valuable tips, case studies, and real-world examples, enabling QS professionals to effectively manage costs, contracts, and project finances.

Building Quantities Explained by Ivor H. Seeley

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Ivor H. Seeley’s “Building Quantities Explained” is a comprehensive guide to quantity surveying and building measurement. It offers a detailed exploration of measurement principles, rules, and techniques used in the construction industry. The book covers elemental cost planning, new rules of measurement (NRM), and provides practical examples of measurement for various building elements. It serves as an essential resource for quantity surveyors involved in measurement and cost management,

Willis’s Elements of Quantity Surveying By Sandra Lee

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Willis’s Elements of Quantity Surveying provides a comprehensive overview of quantity surveying principles, practices, and techniques, making it suitable for both students and practitioners. Sandra Lee, an esteemed author in the field, presents the content in a clear and accessible manner, ensuring that readers can easily grasp the concepts and apply them in real-world scenarios. For students, the book provides a solid foundation in the fundamental principles and practices of the discipline. It offers clear explanations, practical examples, and case studies that facilitate the application of theoretical knowledge. For professionals, the practical insights and real-world examples make it a valuable reference for quantity surveyors navigating the complexities of construction projects.

New Aspects of Quantity Surveying Practice by Duncan Cartlidge

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Cartlidge presents a fresh perspective on the field of quantity surveying, focusing on emerging trends, technological advancements, and evolving roles within the profession. He examines the transformative changes taking place in the industry and offers insights into the implications for quantity surveyors. Themes include: digital transformation, sustainability, risk management, and international practice. It delves into the impact of digital technologies on quantity surveying, the integration of sustainable practices into cost planning and procurement, effective risk management strategies, and the challenges and opportunities associated with working in a globalized construction industry.


Quantity Surveying Practice: A Comprehensive Guide by Ivor H. Seeley

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“Quantity Surveying Practice” by Ivor H. Seeley is a comprehensive guide that offers a detailed exploration of the principles, processes, and practices involved in quantity surveying. The book begins with an introduction to the profession, outlining the role and responsibilities of a quantity surveyor in the construction industry. It then progresses to discuss the various stages of a construction project and the involvement of quantity surveyors at each phase. The book delves into: the Pre and Post Contract Stages, Measurement and Quantification and Cost Management (cost monitoring, cost reporting, and value engineering). Professionals can benefit from the book’s comprehensive coverage of advanced topics, enabling them to enhance their skills, expand their knowledge, and stay up-to-date with industry best practices.


“Quantity Surveying Practice The Nuts and Bolts” By Chung Wai Calvin Keung, Kam Lan Daisy Yeung, Sai On Cheung

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This comprehensive and practical guide delves into the intricacies of quantity surveying. This book provides a detailed examination of the fundamental principles and essential skills required for successful quantity surveying practice. With its emphasis on the practical aspects of the profession, readers can gain valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities and tasks of quantity surveyors. Chung Wai Calvin Keung, Kam Lan Daisy Yeung, and Sai On Cheung, who possess extensive industry experience, offer a wealth of knowledge and real-world examples to illustrate the application of quantity surveying techniques.


BIM and Quantity Surveying Paperback by Steve Pittard

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The emergence of Building Information Modelling (BIM) has had a profound impact on the building industry, leading to a redefinition of the roles and practices of its stakeholders. In the book “BIM and Quantity Surveying” by Steve Pittard, readers are provided with a valuable resource to understand the implications of BIM and how it relates to quantity surveying. This comprehensive guide is specifically designed to assist quantity surveying practitioners and students in adapting to BIM-compliant projects and working successfully within this new paradigm. The book features insightful case studies that showcase how pioneering firms have effectively integrated core quantity surveying responsibilities, including cost estimating, tendering, and development appraisal, into high-profile BIM projects.

Written by
Cooper Geyer

Published
16 June 2023

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