The first month with a QS should give the team a sound starting cost position and a workable plan. The dates below are a guide; urgent live issues may need action on day one.
What should the QS establish before promising a reliable forecast?
Outsourced QS Onboarding: Days 1 To 5
Define the scope, contacts and sign-off roles. Set up safe file access and find the next payment, notice and buying dates.
Give urgent tasks an owner. Keep the review of older records running with the work needed now.
Days 6 To 15: Check The Starting Position
Match the contract and tender with orders, costs, payments and changes. Review the programme and the cost of work still to finish.
Mark estimates and gaps clearly. A first forecast should show what is known and where further checks may change the result.
The first month is short. Which actions need to happen in what order?
- Days 1–5
Confirm roles and urgent dates.
- Days 6–15
Check the starting facts and missing records.
- Days 16–30
Establish reporting and named follow-up actions.
Use the timetable to establish facts and a routine, rather than promise every old issue will be settled.
Days 16 To 30: Establish The Routine
Fit reports to the team's ledger, registers and meetings. Agree who supplies site and finance records and the cut-off date for each output.
By the end of the month, set the next actions, owners and deadlines. Older issues may need a longer plan; the aim is clear control and priorities, rather than a promise that every dispute will be settled.
General guidance. Check your signed contract and the job facts. Get legal advice where needed.