RICS UK & Ireland Quantity Surveying and Construction Conference 2025

Managing Director Tom Haley FRICS spoke at the RICS UK & Ireland Quantity Surveying and Construction Conference 2025, held at RICS HQ in London on 14 October. He joined James Garner, Alice Graham MRICS, and Owen Drury for a panel discussion on AI for the QS: Practical Applications and Pitfalls.

The discussion highlighted how AI is already being used to support quantity take-offs, document review, risk identification, and cost trend analysis — where reliable data and defined processes are in place. The panel explored governance, confidentiality, and alignment with RICS standards while reinforcing the continued importance of professional judgement and transparent validation. There was a clear sense of progress across the profession, supported by practical examples of how technology is improving efficiency and decision-making.

Key messages from the discussion included:

• Lead with standards and responsibility. Align any AI use with RICS rules and professional conduct; be ready to evidence how you have used AI, declare use where appropriate, and upskill your team so advice remains competent.

• Recognise negligence risk. The responsible use of AI could become a source of PI claims if not properly managed — robust processes are essential.

• Adopt deliberately, not recklessly. Identify opportunities to reduce waste, start with small pilots, test divergences, and refine before scaling.

• Use AI to elevate the QS role. Move beyond administrative tasks and reporting; focus on value creation and risk management — the areas that deliver confidence and control for clients.

We are proud supporters of the RICS, our regulatory body, and remain committed to upholding the highest professional and ethical standards in everything we do. Thank you to RICS and to our fellow panellists for a constructive and forward-looking discussion.

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