Source: https://www.quantsurv.com/sectors/oil-and-gas/storage-and-terminals
Content format: Markdown version of the public page.
Content reviewed: 2026-10-13

# Storage and terminals

Quantity surveying and claims support for storage tanks, terminals and associated oil and gas facility works.

## Commercial challenges and how we approach them

Terminal construction brings storage structures together with pipework, loading facilities, buildings and services. New installations can interface with operating assets and separately supplied equipment. The package boundaries need to show which contractor carries each connection and associated civil work.

### Tank foundations and settlement allowances

#### The Challenge

Tank construction depends on the prepared foundation and the specified settlement criteria. Changed ground treatment or foundation levels can affect the tank contractor's start and fabrication sequence.

#### Our approach

We reconcile the foundation acceptance criteria with the tank contractor's required start condition. Surveys and technical instructions support the valuation of revised ground treatment or levels. Any claimed delay is assessed separately: additional concrete and waiting fabrication resources may share a cause, but neither proves the other.

### Hydrotest water, treatment and discharge

#### The Challenge

Who buys, transfers, treats and disposes of the hydrotest water? Leaving that out of the orders can create a sizeable gap.

#### Our approach

We allocate the test-water provisions before award and check any later change against actual test and transfer records.

### Transfer systems and terminal controls

#### The Challenge

A completed tank may still depend on loading, firewater and control systems supplied under other packages. Integrated commissioning can expose missing connections late in the job.

#### Our approach

We compare package limits and test responsibilities, including temporary operating arrangements. Interface changes and additional attendance are assessed against actual readiness records and the agreed commissioning scope.

### Coatings, linings and the return-to-service date

#### The Challenge

Tank refurbishment can reveal more corrosion than expected after cleaning. Surface preparation, coating application and inspection conditions may extend the period before the tank can return to use.

#### Our approach

We record the corrosion exposed after cleaning and the repairs instructed. Measured areas and inspection findings distinguish additional steel or preparation from the original coating scope. We then assess any longer access period against the technical sequence and the reason it changed, rather than allowing duration alone to determine the extra.