QS firms need broader skills in recession, says Vinden

Quantity surveyors are facing an increasing need to multitask to beat the recession and keep building their business, according to Bolton-based QS the Vinden Partnership.

Vinden said clients now expect dispute management, insolvency advice, CDM co-ordination, party wall surveying and capital allowance as well as the usual QS offering.

Peter Vinden, managing director of the Vinden Partnership, said: "Old-fashioned quantity surveying has no place in today's market – a cardboard cut-out is no longer enough for businesses that want – and need – to get the most value out of every investment.

"It's an incredibly competitive market at the moment and with quantity surveyors fighting tooth and nail for clients, standing out from the crowd and offering the most comprehensive service is essential.

"We have already seen developers' roles evolving and the QS needs to do the same if it still wants a place in the industry."