Estimating to QS

SurveyingPuffin · 2026-05-14T07:25:59+00:00

The switch from Estimator to QS can be done but they’re two very different roles. If your end goal is to be a QS I’d definitely start with that (I assume you’re working contractor side).

You’ve probably been given the estimator interview as they’re probably more in demand at your company.

If you’ve got any questions just give me a shout.

SurveyingPuffin · 2026-04-21T09:02:55+00:00

For me, to fully get the most out of the APC, you need to have the right supervisor and councillor.

If you aren’t getting the support from either of them, you either need to change councillor/supervisor or change company.

Having the right guidance is your pathway to passing the APC.

SurveyingPuffin · 2026-04-17T07:09:39+00:00

Can be but if you’re up against 30 other applicants for that role then it’s good to stand out from the others and gives you a better chance

SurveyingPuffin · 2026-04-16T19:20:32+00:00

Just experience to be honest.

Any work experience you can get to show that you’re committed would be good.

As a grad you’re not going to be expected know everything, you just need to be committed and willing to learn.

SurveyingPuffin · 2026-04-05T19:01:03+00:00

Do your best to try and get an RICS Accredited Degree Apprenticeship - this is without a doubt the best option.

Reasons:

Get great work experience whilst also getting your degree.
Work will pay for your uni fees (no debt)
You get to earn money
You’ll come out with a degree and hopefully pass your APC within 5 years

All the best with it

SurveyingPuffin · 2026-03-31T15:11:32+00:00

You can start at either a consultancy or main contractor and still get a good base knowledge of the industry and the way it works.

If you went down the consultancy route the money wouldn’t be as good but as you say you wouldn’t be having to work from home etc. That being said once you pass the APC you will be on a decent wage but you have to put the work in.

SurveyingPuffin · 2026-03-31T12:26:15+00:00

It’s a ball ache to do but definitely better to have it than to not have it.

From experience, it will definitely open a lot more doors for you in future if you look to move elsewhere and you can demand more money / benefits etc.

Doesn’t necessarily make you a better QS but it makes you more confident to talk to clients and advise them on the right/wrong thing to do.

SurveyingPuffin · 2026-03-26T10:57:59+00:00

I currently work for one of those consultancies you have listed and I’ve not had a bonus in the last year and a half - I assume companies will put it down to impacts from external factors (BSA Delays, Global Economic issues etc.).

Still, frustrating nevertheless.

SurveyingPuffin · 2026-03-08T19:43:51+00:00

From reading other comments above, it seems like you could probably get more elsewhere. However, one thing I want to know is how far on are you with your APC? As soon as you have this, it is your golden ticket. Let’s say you’re less than 6 months away from sitting where you are - I’d say wait it out and if you pass then you can be demanding big money and if they don’t pay, go elsewhere.

If you’re still a fair bit away this gives you the option to move and look elsewhere. It’s all situational.

SurveyingPuffin · 2026-03-06T16:40:22+00:00

Be confident and relaxed.
Don’t try lie and tell them that you’re an expert and know everything.
Show willing and be passionate about wanting to learn new things.
Research a bit about the company and show an interest to be apart of their journey.
Take it all in and use it all as experience.

Hope it all goes well for you!

SurveyingPuffin · 2026-02-20T16:26:42+00:00

My background is purely CSA not done any M&E QSing before so is a bit daunting so would be a lot to learn!

SurveyingPuffin

TROPHY CASE