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Do I Need a Quantity Surveyor for My Development Application Cost Report (DA)?
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
If you are preparing a Development Application (DA) in New South Wales, you may have been told that you need a quantity surveyor to prepare a cost report.
This often leads to the question:
"Do I need a quantity surveyor for my DA?"
The answer depends on the type of project, the council's requirements and the estimated value of the proposed development.
Why Is Construction Cost Important for a DA?
Most NSW councils require the value of proposed building works to be declared as part of the Development Application process.
The construction value is used for a number of purposes, including:
Determining applicable council fees
Calculating Section 7.11 and Section 7.12 contributions
Assessing State Government levies
Determining compliance with planning requirements
Because these fees are often based on the construction value of the project, councils require the estimate to be prepared in accordance with specific guidelines.
When Is a Quantity Surveyor Required?
Many councils require a construction cost report prepared by a suitably qualified quantity surveyor once the value of the proposed development exceeds a certain threshold.
The exact requirements vary between councils, however larger residential, commercial and industrial projects commonly require a quantity surveyor's report.
Examples may include:
New homes
Duplex developments
Townhouse projects
Childcare centres
Commercial buildings
Industrial developments
Major alterations and additions
If your council requires an independently prepared construction cost estimate, a quantity surveyor is generally the most appropriate professional to undertake this work.
Can't My Builder Provide a Cost Estimate?
While builders can provide construction quotations, many councils require the construction cost to be assessed using prescribed methodologies.
A builder's quotation may include exclusions, commercial considerations or delivery methods that differ from council requirements.
Quantity surveyors prepare DA cost reports in accordance with the relevant planning guidelines and prescribed cost reporting methodologies.
This helps ensure the report satisfies council requirements and reduces the risk of delays during the assessment process.
Is a DA Cost Report the Same as a Budget Estimate?
No.
This is one of the most common misunderstandings.
A DA cost report is prepared specifically for planning approval purposes and follows prescribed reporting requirements.
It should not be relied upon as a project budget, tender estimate or feasibility assessment.
Actual construction costs can vary significantly depending on factors such as:
Builder selection
Market conditions
Site constraints
Design development
Specification levels
Procurement methodology
If you require budgeting advice, a separate construction cost estimate should be prepared.
What Information Does a Quantity Surveyor Need?
For most projects, a quantity surveyor will require:
Architectural drawings
Site plans
Floor plans
Elevations and sections
Project description
Any available engineering documentation
The more complete the information, the more efficiently the report can be prepared.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Quantity Surveyor?
Engaging a quantity surveyor can provide several benefits:
Compliance with council requirements
Independent and impartial assessment
Reduced risk of delays or requests for further information
Experience with council reporting requirements
Professional indemnity insurance
Clear and professionally presented documentation
For architects, designers and town planners, working with an experienced quantity surveyor can help streamline the approval process and provide confidence that the report will satisfy council requirements.
How Much Does a DA Cost Report Cost?
Fees vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, the level of documentation available and the reporting requirements of the relevant council.
Simple residential projects are generally less expensive than large commercial or industrial developments.
It is important to engage a consultant experienced in preparing council cost reports, as an incorrectly prepared report can result in delays and additional costs.
Need a DA Cost Report?
CPP Quantity Surveyors prepares DA Cost Summary Reports and Estimated Development Cost (EDC) Reports for projects throughout Sydney and Regional NSW.
We regularly assist homeowners, architects, building designers, town planners and developers with council-compliant cost reports for residential, commercial and industrial developments.
Contact us to discuss your project or request a fee proposal.
By Gary Uys, FAIQS CQS, Director - CPP Quantity Surveyors
📞 (02) 9629 3495
