Why Every Waterproofing Job Needs a QS Mindset

The Common Scenario

You win the job. You show up.

Plans are vague. Builder's not sure if the substrate will be H3.2 CCA treated ply or screed. Client changes the spec mid-way.
And now you're quoting on the fly, reordering materials, and losing half a day fixing scope confusion — again.

You didn’t sign up for project guessing games. You came to waterproof — not solve everyone else’s job planning issues.

The QS Insight

Here’s the truth: most waterproofing jobs go off-track before the first bucket of primer is opened.

As QS's who live and breathe waterproofing plans, we see where the cracks start:

• No spec defined (What supplier, colour, any specific code)

• Undefined scope on plans (What areas? What systems? What prep?)

• Budget pressure with no breakdown of materials vs labour vs waste

• No room for plan detail changes or weather buffers

A QS mindset doesn’t just calculate metres — it defines the job, aligns pricing with delivery, and protects you when the plan shifts.

A Simple Tip

You don’t need to become a full QS — but here’s how to borrow the mindset:

1. Always ask: “What’s not shown?”
   → Check for upstands, transitions, balcony returns, substrate specs.

2. Break your quote into visible layers
   → Materials, labour, waste, access, risk allowance — it builds trust.

3. Use plan markups as proof of what you priced
   → Whether it’s digital or printed, it backs you up if scope changes.

4. Tag scope exclusions clearly
   → E.g., “Does not include ply prep,” “Deck slope must be verified before install”

When you quote with QS clarity, clients see the value.
And your team hits site with a clear target — not guesswork.

Tendering?

Let us bring the QS edge to your next job.
We help waterproofers scope clearly, price confidently, and avoid costly rework.