Effective cost planning will help to ensure that, once a realistic estimate is agreed between the parties, everything that follows is in accordance with it, from the successful contractor's tender to the final project cost. Constant monitoring means that the risk of overspending can be seen at an early stage and prompt action taken.
Cost planning over the last decade is increasingly becoming a valuable service that the client is expecting from the quantity surveyor, to ensure that he receives better value-for-money, expenditure is controlled, and that the project cost is kept within the agreed budget.