ABSTRACT
Other than the architect, the client may need to appoint other consultants. The architect can make recommendations or the client can consult the relevant professional institutions. The various other consultants include quality surveyor (QS)/cost consultant, structural engineer, mechanical and electrical (M&E) building services engineers, planning consultant, interior designer, and landscape architect. The role of the QS or cost consultant is broadly related to the financial management of the project. The QS will be responsible for preparing a cost plan for the design and this should be kept up to date to reflect the current design proposal as the design evolves. The structural engineer can advise the architect on local conditions relevant to the site, such as soil and geotechnical factors, roads, sewers, water supply and so on. The M&E engineers will advise on climatic conditions, energy use and conservation, emission problems and so on, and will consult relevant authorities as necessary.
