Source: https://www.quantsurv.com/sectors/infrastructure/public-realm-and-landscaping
Content format: Markdown version of the public page.
Content reviewed: 2026-10-13

# Public realm and landscaping

Quantity surveying and claims support for streetscapes, public spaces, parks and external landscape works.

## Commercial challenges and how we approach them

Public-realm projects combine paving, planting, lighting, drainage and street furniture with access and utility interfaces. A wider development may deliver these works in phases while adjacent areas remain in use. Hard and soft landscape packages need a complete and coordinated scope.

### Paving levels meeting existing thresholds and drainage

#### The Challenge

Small level changes can alter kerbs, drainage channels, steps and building entrances across a public space. The cost may extend beyond the area of paving shown as changed.

#### Our approach

We trace the level revision through the paving, kerbs, channels and entrances rather than valuing only the area coloured on the change drawing. Orders already placed and work already laid can affect the cost. We also check for omitted work and reuse, so the adjustment reflects the complete change.

### Trees, utilities and below-ground space

#### The Challenge

A tree pit needs space below ground as well as above it. Existing services can force a new location, different root protection or a revised construction detail.

#### Our approach

We price the instructed detail across excavation, planting infrastructure and utility protection, using the specialists' requirements as the basis.

### Planting seasons and establishment obligations

#### The Challenge

Missing a planting season can mean storing stock, caring for it and returning later. It can also change when establishment and replacement obligations begin, which needs to be clear before the account is closed.

#### Our approach

We clarify the planting period and establishment scope before award. Additional attendance and care are assessed against instructions and records, while ordinary maintenance and replacement obligations remain separately identified.

### Keeping routes and businesses accessible

#### The Challenge

Public-realm works may need changing pedestrian routes, shop access and phased surfacing. A revised traffic or access plan can increase temporary works and repeated setup without increasing the final area.

#### Our approach

We record the access phases included in the price and assess changed routes or repeated setup from actual instructions and resources. The finished paving area will not capture those temporary costs.