Causes of delays in construction projects – a case study

Construction delays can be defined as the late completion of work compared to the planned schedule or contract schedule. Construction delays can be minimized only when their causes are identified. The objective of this study was to identify the major causes of construction delays, the effects of delays, and methods of minimizing construction delays. This study was carried out based on literature review and a questionnaire survey. A total of eight groups were contributed to the cause of construction delays, six factors that effects delays and fifteen methods of minimizing construction delays were identified based on literature review. The questionnaire survey was distributed to the target respondent in Silppi Realtors and Contractors construction site. The objectives of the study were successfully achieved. The top three most important factors that contributed to the causes of delays were late in revising and approving design documents, delays in sub-contractors work, and poor communication and coordination change orders by owner during construction. Contractor-related delays was ranked the most significant groups that cause delays, followed by client-related delays, and consultant-related delays. Time and cost overrun were the common effects of delays in construction projects. To minimize delays in construction projects it has been identified that the top three effective methods of minimizing construction delays includes: site management and supervision, effective strategic planning, and clear information and communication channel