The Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (CIQS) is urging the federal government to better engage construction economists in national planning efforts, warning that current oversight may hinder Canada’s ability to effectively respond to the housing crisis and scale critical infrastructure projects. Representing Professional Quantity Surveyors (PQS) and Construction Estimator Certified (CEC) professionals, CIQS highlights the need for cost-efficiency, risk forecasting, and financial accountability in all federal investments.

While the federal government’s recent $13 billion commitment to Build Canada Homes and the approval of key infrastructure projects are steps in the right direction, experts caution that these initiatives lack sufficient professional oversight to ensure dollars are used efficiently. CIQS Vice-Chair Seán Hollywood notes that mechanisms must be in place to verify financial targets and maximize project value.

Construction economists bring critical value to project planning, including cost forecasting, risk evaluation, and optimizing construction methods like modular and factory-built housing. CIQS Board Director Ryan Hendricks stresses the importance of integrating innovative and sustainable practices, especially as Canada ramps up housing development to meet urgent demand.

CIQS asserts that involving PQS and CEC professionals in procurement and planning would enhance transparency and ensure infrastructure adheres to modern cost-effective standards. By leveraging expert analysis at the early stages of development, Canada can improve the performance and affordability of both housing and infrastructure assets.

The construction sector contributes approximately 7.5% of Canada’s GDP, employing over 1.6 million people—or one in every 13 Canadian workers. As a foundational part of the economy, the industry’s long-term resilience and effectiveness rely on smart policy and professional oversight.

CIQS is calling on federal leaders to recognize the untapped potential of Canada’s construction economists and formally integrate them into the planning and procurement of publicly funded projects. Doing so, they argue, will promote sustainable growth, boost economic efficiency, and ensure taxpayer dollars deliver measurable value—especially as Canada faces rising material costs, labour shortages, and increased pressure to build faster and smarter.

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