20+ Senior Quantity Surveyor Interview Questions and Answers

The mix design criteria of IS 456 refers to the specifications for designing concrete mixes.

• IS 456 is the Indian Standard code of practice for plain and reinforced concrete.

• The mix design criteria include the proportions of various ingredients in the concrete mix.

• The criteria also consider the strength, workability, and durability requirements of the concrete.

• The mix design criteria of IS 456 provide guidelines for selecting the appropriate mix proportions based on the desire...read more

Secured advance in client billing is a payment made by the client to the contractor before the work is completed.

• It is a form of pre-payment made by the client to the contractor

• It is usually made to help the contractor cover the cost of materials and labor before the work is completed

• The amount of the secured advance is usually a percentage of the total contract value

• The contractor must provide security for the advance, such as a bank guarantee or insurance policy

• The secured ...read more

The slump required for pumble concrete depends on various factors such as the type of construction, weather conditions, and desired workability.

• Slump is a measure of the consistency or fluidity of concrete.

• For pumble concrete, the slump requirement may vary depending on the specific project requirements.

• In general, a slump of 4 to 6 inches is commonly used for pumble concrete.

• However, it is important to consult the project specifications and design requirements to determine t...read more

To manually calculate shuttering and volume for building construction, measurements of the structure and materials used must be taken into account.

• Calculate the area of each component of the building (walls, slabs, columns, etc.) that require shuttering.

• Determine the thickness of the shuttering material to be used for each component.

• Multiply the area of each component by the thickness of the shuttering material to get the volume of shuttering needed.

• Consider any additional fa...read more

Types of beams include cantilever, simply supported, fixed, and continuous beams. Depth variation beam refers to beams with varying depths along their length.

• Types of beams: cantilever, simply supported, fixed, continuous

• Depth variation beam: refers to beams with varying depths along their length

• Example: A beam that starts with a depth of 300mm and gradually increases to 500mm along its length

The wastage percentage varies depending on the type of work.

• Wastage percentage for construction work can range from 5% to 20% depending on the type of material used.

• For electrical work, the wastage percentage can be around 2% to 5% due to damaged or defective components.

• In plumbing work, the wastage percentage can be around 10% to 15% due to incorrect measurements or damaged pipes.

• For painting work, the wastage percentage can be around 10% to 15% due to spillage or overspray....read more

I approach reviewing payment applications methodically and thoroughly to ensure accuracy and fairness.

• Start by comparing the payment application to the contract terms and scope of work

• Verify quantities, rates, and calculations for accuracy

• Check for any deviations or changes that may impact the payment

• Ensure all necessary documentation and supporting information is included

• Communicate any discrepancies or issues with the relevant parties for resolution

The maximum dosage admixture depends on the type of admixture and the concrete mix design.

• The maximum dosage admixture is the highest amount of admixture that can be added to a concrete mix without compromising its strength or durability.

• The maximum dosage admixture varies depending on the type of admixture used, such as water reducers, air-entraining agents, or set accelerators.

• The maximum dosage admixture also depends on the concrete mix design, including the type of cement...read more

An inverted beam is a beam that is constructed below the slab level instead of above it.

• Inverted beams are used to provide additional headroom in basements or underground structures.

• They are also used to transfer loads from the slab to the columns or walls below.

• Inverted beams are commonly used in parking garages, basements, and underground structures.

• They can also be used in areas where there are height restrictions or where a flat ceiling is desired.

Chemical admixtures are substances added to concrete to enhance its properties and performance.

• Chemical admixtures are used in concrete construction to improve workability, durability, and strength.

• There are several types of chemical admixtures, including water-reducing admixtures, air-entraining admixtures, accelerating admixtures, and retarding admixtures.

• Water-reducing admixtures reduce the amount of water needed in the concrete mix, improving its strength and workability....read more

Pipe and fittings are calculated based on the length and type of pipe, as well as the number and type of fittings required.

• Calculate the total length of pipe needed for the project

• Determine the type and size of pipe required for the project

• Calculate the number and type of fittings needed based on the pipe layout

• Consider factors such as bends, tees, reducers, and valves when calculating fittings

• Add extra length for allowances such as cutting and threading

Action points at site level refer to specific tasks or activities that need to be completed on the construction site.

• Action points are typically identified during site inspections or progress meetings.

• They can include tasks such as resolving design issues, coordinating with subcontractors, or ensuring compliance with regulations.

• Examples of action points could be revising drawings to address conflicts, obtaining necessary permits, or scheduling inspections.

• Tracking and addres...read more

A bar bender is productive when they efficiently bend reinforcing bars according to specifications.

• Ability to accurately read and interpret construction drawings

• Skill in using bending machines and tools

• Knowledge of different types of reinforcement bars and bending techniques

• Attention to detail to ensure bars are bent to the correct angles and dimensions

• Efficiency in completing tasks to meet project deadlines

Foundation layout and excavation must be done according to industry standards to ensure structural integrity.

• Ensure foundation layout is in accordance with structural drawings and specifications

• Excavate the area to the required depth and dimensions as per design requirements

• Check for any underground utilities or obstructions before excavation begins

• Use proper equipment and techniques to prevent damage to surrounding structures or property

• Regularly inspect and monitor the exca...read more

I manage variations by carefully reviewing the scope of work, documenting changes, assessing cost impacts, and negotiating with stakeholders.

• Review the scope of work to understand the original requirements

• Document any changes in scope or specifications

• Assess the cost impacts of variations on the project budget

• Negotiate with stakeholders to reach agreements on the changes

A material statement is a document that lists all the materials used in a construction project and their associated costs.

• It is used by quantity surveyors to keep track of the materials used and their costs

• It includes details such as the quantity, unit price, and total cost of each material

• It is an important tool for budgeting and cost control in construction projects

• Examples of materials that may be included in a material statement are cement, steel, bricks, and electrical w...read more

A degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related field is typically required for a Senior Quantity Surveyor role.

• Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related field is essential

• Professional certifications such as RICS or CIOB may be preferred

• Advanced degrees or specialized training can be beneficial for career advancement

Employee growth refers to the development and advancement of an individual within their career.

• Employee growth involves acquiring new skills and knowledge

• It includes taking on more responsibilities and challenges

• Career progression and promotions are indicators of employee growth

The company is currently in a stable financial position with ongoing projects and a strong reputation in the industry.

• Company has a strong financial position

• Ongoing projects are in progress

• Company has a good reputation in the industry

Cost estimation process involves analyzing project requirements, materials, labor, and other factors to determine the overall cost.

• Gather project requirements and specifications

• Identify materials and quantities needed

• Estimate labor costs based on project scope and duration

• Consider overhead costs and profit margins

• Use historical data and industry benchmarks for accuracy

• Adjust estimates as needed based on changes in project scope or market conditions

Rolling margin is the difference between the actual cost and the estimated cost of a project, calculated at various stages of the project.

• Rolling margin helps in tracking the financial performance of a project over time.

• It is calculated by subtracting the estimated cost from the actual cost at different intervals.

• For example, if the estimated cost of a project is $100,000 and the actual cost at the halfway point is $60,000, the rolling margin would be $40,000.

Analysis of rates is a process of breaking down the cost of a construction project into individual components.

• It involves identifying the cost of materials, labor, equipment, and other expenses required for the project.

• It helps in estimating the total cost of the project and in preparing a budget.

• It is used by quantity surveyors to compare the cost of different projects and to identify areas where cost savings can be made.

• For example, if a project requires a large amount of c...read more

The name of the Senior Quantity Surveyor is not provided in the question.

• The name of the Senior Quantity Surveyor was not mentioned in the question.

• It is important to focus on the qualifications and experience of the candidate instead of their name.

The question requires a detailed and in-depth explanation of a specific topic or concept related to quantity surveying.

• Start by providing a comprehensive overview of the topic being discussed

• Break down the key components or processes involved in the topic

• Include relevant examples or case studies to illustrate your points

• Discuss any challenges or considerations that may arise in relation to the topic

• Conclude by summarizing the importance or impact of the topic in the field of ...read more

The state refers to the condition or status of something at a particular point in time.

• State can refer to the physical condition of a building or structure.

• State can also refer to the legal status of a project or contract.

• State can also refer to the progress or completion level of a task or project.