1908 - Formation In early 1908, the South African Institute of Quantity Surveyors (the predecessor of the current Association of South African Quantity Surveyors) was established as the first nationally-based professional representative body within the built environment in South Africa. The initial membership comprised just 11 members. Despite their small numbers, these early pioneers were highly active and influential in the field. Notably, the South African Standard System of Measurement was published before the Standard System of Great Britain, the original home of the profession.
Early Development in South Africa
1870s - Influence of Political and Economic Changes The development of quantity surveying in South Africa was significantly influenced by the country's political and economic transformations. The shift from an agricultural economy to one dominated by mining began with the discovery of diamonds around 1870, followed by the opening of the Witwatersrand goldfields in 1886. During this period, South Africa was politically divided, with the coastal colonies under British rule and the Transvaal and Orange Free State under independent governments, impacting the evolution of the quantity surveying and architecture professions.
Late 1800s - Early Influence by Architects The mining boom attracted architects from Britain to Johannesburg, Pretoria, and coastal towns, bringing with them knowledge of the quantity surveying system. Initially, architects issued their own quantities, which were often simplistic. By the late 1890s, the demand for more precise measurements led to the arrival of fully qualified quantity surveyors in South Africa, establishing themselves in major centers across the country.
Mid-Century Progress
1905-1908 - Formation of Professional Bodies In response to the growing demand for professional standards, the Transvaal surveyors formed the Transvaal Society of Quantity Surveyors in 1905, which evolved into the South African Institute of Quantity Surveyors in 1908. This was the first nationally representative body for quantity surveyors in South Africa. The Institute became affiliated with the Chartered Surveyors Institution of Great Britain in 1925, enhancing the profession's credibility and visibility.
1927 - Architects' and Quantity Surveyors' Private Act A significant milestone was the passing of the Architects' and Quantity Surveyors' Private Act (No. 18 of 1927), which provided legal recognition and title protection for both professions. This act was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the early pioneers of quantity surveying in South Africa.
1940s - War and Reconstruction World War II and its aftermath had a profound impact on the building industry. Post-war reconstruction efforts led to a surge in building activities, although this was followed by a severe depression. The formation of the Union of South Africa in 1910 eventually helped revive the industry, with the establishment of a Union Public Works Department adopting the London system of measurement.
Modern Era
1950s - Establishment of Association Offices In 1958, ASAQS, along with the Transvaal Provincial Institute of Architects, moved into a new building in Braamfontein. This marked 50 years since the inauguration of the South African Institute of Quantity Surveyors, bringing new prestige to the profession.
1960s - Proclamation of the Republic of South Africa and Technological Curiosity The proclamation of the Republic of South Africa in 1961 had little direct effect on the profession, but the advent of computers in the mid-1960s sparked significant interest among quantity surveyors. This period also saw the introduction of computerized processes in the profession.
1970 - Quantity Surveyors' Act (No. 36 of 1970) The Quantity Surveyors' Act of 1970 brought about substantial changes, including the establishment of the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors and the South African Council for Quantity Surveyors as separate entities. This act ensured that all practicing quantity surveyors had to be members of an approved association.
1974 - Publication of Fee Scale The publication of the all-in sliding fee scale in 1974 was a significant development, replacing the long-standing 2.5% fee with a more comprehensive fee structure for both public and private sectors.
Recent Developments
1980s - Technological Integration and Membership Growth The 1980s saw the integration of computers into the quantity surveying profession, with ASAQS acquiring its first micro-computer in 1983. Membership continued to grow steadily, reflecting the profession's development and the increasing number of professionals entering the field.
1990s-2000s - Global Integration and Digital Transformation ASAQS strengthened its ties with international bodies, participating in global conferences and forming partnerships. The digital age brought about significant changes, with the adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and other digital tools enhancing efficiency and accuracy.
2010s - Sustainability and Innovation Sustainability became a key focus, with ASAQS leading initiatives to incorporate sustainable practices in quantity surveying. Members were equipped with the knowledge and tools to promote green building practices.
2020s - Continued Digital Transformation The digital transformation of the profession continued into the 2020s, with ASAQS advocating for the adoption of advanced digital tools and methodologies to further enhance the profession.
Looking Ahead
Future Vision ASAQS remains committed to advancing the profession of quantity surveying. With a focus on innovation, education, and professional excellence, the association aims to continue shaping the future of the construction industry in South Africa and beyond.
The History of Quantity Surveying
Early Development in England The quantity surveying profession emerged in England at the beginning of the nineteenth century, although the firm of Henry Cooper and Sons of Reading was established as early as 1785. Prior to the first recorded usage of the term "quantity surveyor" in 1859, the terms "measurer," "custom surveyor," or "surveyor" were used.
Role Evolution Initially, quantity surveyors acted for master tradesmen, measuring work after completion and frequently submitting partisan Final Accounts to building owners. Over time, building owners began to execute work under contract and called for tenders before any work was undertaken. This led to the practice of appointing an architect to design a building, with drawings and specifications distributed to master builders who submitted tenders for the total price.
Development of Bills of Quantities The task of arriving at an accurate estimate of cost or tender was accomplished by measuring the quantities of all materials and labour necessary to complete the work, i.e., preparing bills of quantities. Builders soon realized the economic benefit of employing a single surveyor to prepare quantities for all of them, ensuring they all tendered on the same basis. This led to the quantity surveyor gaining independent consultant status, with building owners appointing and paying their fees.
Modern-Day Role The quantity surveying profession has evolved from a narrowly-based building sector participant to an essential role throughout various stages of projects in all types of construction and property developments.
