Scope Of Services

Section 1

Purpose

Defining the scope of services is one of the most commercially critical steps in any QS appointment. A poorly defined scope leads to fee shortfalls, scope creep, client dissatisfaction, and disputes. The RICS QS Scope of Services (2022) provides the definitive framework for describing and agreeing what services will be provided.

Every appointment should include a written and agreed scope of services before work commences.

Section 2

Key Principles

The RICS QS Scope of Services 2022 divides services into Core Services (expected as standard) and Optional/Additional Services (selected as required). Clearly identify which apply.
Core services typically include: feasibility cost advice, cost planning, procurement advice, tender documentation, tender evaluation, contract administration support, and final account preparation.
Additional services may include: life cycle costing, employer's agent, value engineering, BIM coordination, tax advice, and neighbourly matters.
The scope must align precisely with the RICS Standard Form of Consultant's Appointment Schedules (Schedule of Services).
Scope creep — where the client requests work beyond the agreed scope without a formal variation — is one of the most common causes of fee erosion. Document all instructions received in writing.
Under RICS Rule of Conduct 3, the QS must agree the scope and terms before commencing work. Verbal instructions to "just get started" are not sufficient.

Section 3

Practical Application

Step 1

Review the client's brief and map required services against the RICS QS Scope of Services 2022 framework, identifying core and optional services.

Step 2

Prepare a Schedule of Services (as per the RICS Standard Form Appointment) that clearly identifies included and excluded services for each RIBA work stage.

Step 3

Agree the scope with the client in writing before commencing any chargeable work.

Step 4

Issue a scope summary as part of the appointment documentation, and file a signed copy.

Step 5

Where additional services are instructed, issue a written variation to scope and fee before carrying out the additional work.

Step 6

Review the scope at each RIBA work stage gate to confirm it remains appropriate and issue any necessary amendments.

Section 4

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Commencing work without an agreed written scope — this leaves the firm unable to recover fees for "extra" work.
Using vague language (e.g., "full cost management services") without defining what that includes or excludes.
Failing to agree a variation to scope and fee before carrying out additional instructions.
Not referencing the RICS QS Scope of Services 2022 — use of this standard document significantly reduces ambiguity.
Including services in the scope that fall outside the firm's competence or resource capacity.

Section 5

APC Competency & Quick Reference

This topic is relevant to: Business Development (Level 1–2), Client Care (Level 1–2), Commercial Management of Construction (Level 1–2), Contract Practice (Level 1–2).

What is the purpose of the RICS QS Scope of Services 2022?

It provides a standardised framework for describing and agreeing the services a QS will provide, divided into Core Services (standard) and Optional/Additional Services. Using it reduces ambiguity, supports fee recovery, and demonstrates professional compliance.

How do you manage scope creep on a project?

By ensuring all instructions are received in writing, documenting them against the agreed scope, and issuing a formal written variation to scope and fee before carrying out any work beyond the original agreement. Regular scope reviews at each RIBA work stage help prevent creep accumulating unnoticed.

At what point must a scope of services be agreed?

Before commencing any chargeable work, as required by RICS Rule of Conduct 3. A verbal "go ahead" from the client is not a substitute for a written, agreed scope of services.

Section 6

Pre-Appointment Checklist

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Client brief reviewed and services mapped against RICS QS Scope of Services 2022

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Core services identified and confirmed

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Optional/additional services identified and agreed (or excluded)

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Schedule of Services prepared per RICS Standard Form Appointment schedules

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Scope agreed with client in writing before work commences

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Signed copy of scope filed on the project record

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Variation mechanism documented in the appointment terms

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Scope review dates noted against RIBA work stage programme

Section 7

CPD Learning Outcomes

Apply the RICS QS Scope of Services 2022 framework to define and agree a clear written scope of services.
Distinguish between core and optional services and document them clearly in the appointment.
Manage scope creep through written instructions, variation procedures, and regular scope reviews.

Section 8