Construction Projects Grind to a Halt as Quantity Surveyor Shortage Bites Deep

A critical shortage of Quantity Surveyors (QSs) is significantly impacting the UK’s construction sector, with nearly half of all projects experiencing delays and budget overruns. Research from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) reveals an ageing workforce not being adequately replenished by new talent, leading to a substantial reduction in work capacity and output across the industry.

Key Takeaways

Nearly one-third of construction firms describe the QS shortfall as critical.
Over half of respondents report reduced work capacity due to the shortage.
Delays and budget overruns are becoming commonplace on affected projects.

The Growing Skills Gap

The findings from RICS paint a stark picture of the challenges facing the construction industry. An alarming number of firms are struggling to find qualified QSs, a situation exacerbated by an aging demographic within the profession. This lack of new entrants means that the demand for these essential professionals far outstrips the available supply.

Impact on Projects

The consequences of this shortage are being felt directly on construction sites nationwide. With insufficient QSs to manage costs, contracts, and valuations effectively, projects are experiencing significant delays. Furthermore, the inability to accurately forecast and control expenses is leading to substantial budget overruns, putting financial strain on developers and contractors alike.

Proposed Solutions

In response to this skills crisis, surveyors have put forward several potential solutions. These include:

Expanding apprenticeship and work-based learning opportunities to attract new talent.
Enhancing the promotion of surveying careers to a wider audience.
Investing in upskilling existing professionals to meet evolving industry demands.
Fostering stronger collaboration between academic institutions and industry to ensure training aligns with practical needs.

A Call to Action

RICS Acting President, Nick Maclean, highlighted the immense opportunities available for both new entrants and existing professionals looking to adapt to technological advancements. He stressed that addressing the skills gap is not just an industry concern but is crucial for meeting national targets, including the delivery of 1.5 million new homes and essential infrastructure improvements outlined in the government’s ten-year strategy.