The Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (CIQS) is calling on the federal government to reform how it funds housing and nation-building infrastructure projects. Representing Professional Quantity Surveyors (PQS) and Construction Estimator Certified professionals, the CIQS stresses that without stronger industry engagement, Canada risks wasting billions and missing key housing targets.
1. Overview of CIQS and Its Role
The Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (CIQS) represents professionals skilled in cost estimation, construction economics, and financial management of building projects. Their goal is to ensure that every infrastructure and housing project across Canada meets the highest standards of cost efficiency and sustainability.
2. Why Funding Reform Is Urgently Needed
With Canada facing a national housing crisis and billions being spent on infrastructure, CIQS argues that the current funding mechanisms lack accountability. Many projects are approved without sufficient cost-benefit analysis or performance evaluation, leading to delays, budget overruns, and inefficiencies.
3. Current Gaps in Federal Infrastructure Planning
According to CIQS, the federal government’s limited collaboration with cost professionals is a major reason for inefficiency. Without proper financial oversight from experts, new construction initiatives risk missing their long-term economic and social objectives.
4. The $13 Billion Build Canada Homes Initiative
While the government’s $13 billion capital investment under the Build Canada Homes program is a positive step, CIQS stresses that this initiative must be paired with structured evaluation mechanisms.
“There must be a mechanism to ensure every dollar is efficiently utilized and that projects achieve their financial targets,” said Seán Hollywood, PQS and CIQS Vice-Chair.
5. CIQS’s Call for Better Industry Engagement
The CIQS believes that construction economists and quantity surveyors should play a greater role in national planning. Their involvement can help the government with:
- Advanced risk management
- Accurate cost forecasting
- Data-driven decision-making during project planning
This collaboration could ensure every infrastructure project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the best possible value.
6. The Economic Importance of the Construction Sector
The construction industry contributes 7.5% of Canada’s GDP and supports over 1.6 million jobs. Roughly one in every 13 Canadians works in construction — a clear sign of its critical role in the national economy.
“Our industry provides Canadians and their families with good-paying jobs,” the CIQS noted in its statement.
7. Cost Efficiency and Risk Evaluation
Cost efficiency doesn’t just mean cutting spending. It involves strategic planning, understanding risk factors, and ensuring that public funds are spent where they generate the most value. CIQS experts can help optimize how tax dollars are invested in housing, healthcare, and transportation projects.
8. Modular and Factory-Built Housing: The Future of Construction
Ryan Hendricks, PQS and CIQS Board Member, emphasized the need to explore modern, cost-effective methods:
“By integrating cost-effectiveness and innovative construction methods like modular housing and factory-built homes, we can pave the way for a sustainable and affordable infrastructure landscape.”
These construction methods offer faster build times, lower costs, and less environmental impact — aligning perfectly with Canada’s green building goals.
9. Recommendations for the Federal Government
The CIQS proposes that the government should:
- Incorporate construction economists early in project planning.
- Implement financial accountability frameworks for every new project.
- Support the adoption of modular and prefabricated housing.
- Create a national construction data platform for transparency and analysis.
10. Moving Toward a Sustainable, Cost-Effective Future
The CIQS’s message is clear: Canada needs a strategic, data-driven, and cost-conscious approach to housing and infrastructure. Collaboration between policymakers and construction professionals could ensure that public money truly builds a stronger, fairer, and more sustainable Canada.