Four things you need to consider for when hiring a setting out engineer
Hiring a setting-out engineer seems easy to do but there are some things that you need to consider when getting a setting-out engineer. Although you must hire someone with the right skills and experience to do the job, you have to undertake some contractual and insurance related due-diligence and provide the right information. With the growing rate of cowboy surveyors doing a one-day course it is getting more important now than ever to take time when getting a setting-out engineer.
Here are three things to consider before engaging with one.
They must be provided with the latest drawings in PDF and DWG
You should provide the setting out engineer with the latest drawing in PDF and DWG format. It is also important that the drawings are provided in their most up-to-date revision. The drawings must be supplied with sufficient time for review and questions before the start of work.
The control stations should also be provided to the setting out engineer so they can check all construction elements prior to attending site.
They must have the ability to communicate with the site team.
The setting-out engineer must have the ability to communicate with the site team. Communication is key in this role, as they need to explain the stakeout with contractors and site teams. They also need to be able to communicate with designers or architects on any queries relating to clashes during construction or design.
Setting out engineers must be able to explain their stakeouts clearly so that everyone is on board with what needs to be done next for them on a given project.
The surveyor must be able to read drawings.
The surveyor must be able to read drawings. A good setting-out engineer does not need to be an expert on the design or construction of the project, but he or she needs excellent reading skills. They can read drawings correctly, identify clashes and plan of work with the site team, avoid mistakes such as version control and get the latest drawings.
They also need to ensure they have all the relevant setting out credentials.
Ok, so far, you've been able to check if they can read, speak and do their job. Now you just need to ensure that 1) they hold Professional Indemnity insurance for Setting-out. There are only insurance providers that deal with this in the UK. It is very expensive to have proper PI insurance, if they are coming in as a cheap surveyor, the change is that they are not insured, and any errors will be at your own cost.
Once I looked an insurance document for a setting out engineer, and he had a cover for a teacher, which has nothing to do with surveying. So make sure you check this.
Second, make sure they are qualified properly, the only non-land surveying course that you can get at the moment is from the Survey School and they are providing the ProQual Engineering Surveying Level 3.
Hopefully, this article was helpful in giving you some insights on hiring a setting-out engineer. If you're looking for a setting-out engineer we provide qualified land surveyors who are insured to do the job. Contact me on 0203 744 3020 or info@icelabz.co.uk to get a quote. (Please note we only cover the London area)