Professionals in The Construction Industry
Consultants in construction are often called “theory guys” because they do not physically build. Architects, Engineers, Project Managers, and Quantity Surveyors design, provide guidance, and ensure compliance with standards, while contractors execute the construction based on their specifications.
Roles of Key Consultants
- Architect (Arch) – The primary designer and master planner of the project. Architects handle spatial planning, aesthetics, and ensure designs follow client briefs while remaining feasible.
- Structural Engineer (Eng.) – Responsible for the stability and durability of the building, ensuring it safely supports its intended use.
- Quantity Surveyor (QS) – Prepares accurate cost estimates and project budgets, providing financial guidance throughout the project.
- Project Manager (PM) – coordinate all the workflow and include managing communication and relationship between client, contractor and all other project stakeholders. This is is from inception to handover.
Why Consultants Matter
Consultants protect clients from unrealistic expectations and impractical designs. Complex designs, especially non-rectangular structures, require skilled supervision to ensure buildability, compliance, and cost control. Engaging unqualified designers or “freelancers” may seem cheaper but often produces impractical outputs, resulting in delays, extra costs, and substandard quality.
Consultants also monitor contractors, preventing substandard work and collusion that could compromise project quality. In cases where designs are complex, involving the contractor during design can reduce conflicts later.
Traditional vs Contemporary Engagement
Traditionally, clients approached the Architect first, then the Engineer, and finally the Quantity Surveyor before acting as their own contractor. Today, many clients hire a Project Manager who assembles the full team and ensures accountability. Some clients use a design-and-build contractor, where the contractor hires the consultants, but it is still advisable to have a project manager on the client’s side for oversight
Clients must embrace professional consultants to avoid relying on inexperienced individuals who may undercharge but deliver substandard results. Investing in professional expertise ensures quality, safety, compliance, and long-term success.
Good buildings come from good people, and all problems are solved by good design
Architect Stephen Gardiner
For more information, reach out to us via info@rickfes.co.ke
At Rickfes Construction Ltd, our team of professional consultants ensures your building project in Kenya is designed, managed and executed to the highest standards, protecting your investment and delivering quality results.
