Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the quantity surveying practices in Malaysia

Abstract

Purpose

Malaysia has experienced a significant surge in COVID-19. The “new normal” has plunged construction players into one of the most challenging times in their history, including the quantity surveyors (QS). Playing a primary role from pre-construction to post-construction stages, QS is essential to ensure project success. This study aims to clarify the impact of COVID-19 on quantity surveying practices to provide a better understanding of the construction sector's downturn during the pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Preliminary exploratory interviews were conducted with ten QS, architects, project managers and engineers to identify quantity surveying practices affected by the pandemic, followed by a survey involving 222 respondents to determine the significance of these impacts.

Findings

It was found that quantity surveying practices involving site visits, such as variation work valuation and interim payment valuation, were the most affected by the pandemic. On the other hand, consultative services such as value management and advisory services were the least affected.

Research limitations/implications

The study faced data sampling limitations. Further research requires more insights on different groups of QS, such as consultants, contractors and developers, and reasons behind the difference in consensus between QS and non-QS respondents.

Practical implications

The insights from this research may help authorities and construction companies make necessary adjustments to ensure the quantity surveying profession remains resilient, hence a better chance of project success during a pandemic. This discovery can also be considered a significant opportunity to present the need for further development.

Originality/value

The findings are expected to explain how COVID-19 had affected the duties of QS and identify which impact is the most significant. This research will complement the existing publications on the impacts of COVID-19 on the construction industry.

Citation

Tan, S.Y. and Zainon, N. (2023), "Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the quantity surveying practices in Malaysia", Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 30 No. 8, pp. 3480-3508. https://doi.org/10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-0988