How to Avoid Delays in Construction Projects
Delays are common in construction, but most can be avoided. A small mistake or late decision can push your project weeks behind. You don’t need to fix delays later. You can prevent them now.
Here’s how.
1. Finalize All Plans Before You Start
Don’t begin construction while your designs are still changing.
- Finalize your architectural and structural drawings.
- Approve finishes, fittings, and materials early.
- Get your approvals before mobilizing on-site.
Every change adds new costs, confusion, and lost time. Decide before you build.
2. Choose a Reliable Contractor
Hiring the wrong builder is one of the fastest ways to stall your project.
- Ask to visit past projects before hiring.
- Check their registration with the National Construction Authority.
- Agree on clear timelines and a written contract.
Don’t rush the hiring process. Your contractor can delay or deliver your build.
3. Break Your Project into Phases
Trying to handle everything at once can overwhelm your team and stretch your cash.
- Divide the work into manageable stages: foundation, walls, roofing, finishes.
- Assign timelines and materials to each phase.
- Pay only when one phase is complete and approved.
Clear phases help you track progress and control delays.
4. Order Materials Early
You can’t build without materials. And in Kenya, delivery timelines can shift fast.
- Identify long-lead items—like steel, roofing sheets, custom windows—and order them in advance.
- Don’t wait until the last minute to buy.
- Confirm delivery dates and follow up with suppliers regularly.
In 2023, a cement shortage caused countrywide project delays. Sites with early orders kept moving. Others waited weeks.
Plan your material flow as carefully as your labor schedule.
5. Supervise the Site Daily
Work slows down when no one is checking.
- Assign a qualified site supervisor or clerk of works.
- Use a site logbook to track daily work, materials, and labor.
- Visit the site often or request photo updates.
Supervision isn’t just about checking. It keeps everyone accountable.
6. Make Quick Decisions
Don’t keep your workers waiting.
- Decide on finishes, layouts, and fittings before work reaches that stage.
- Be available for approvals or changes.
- Respond fast when your contractor raises a question.
Every delay in your decision causes delays on the site.
7. Track Your Budget
Running out of money mid-project stops everything.
- Set a realistic budget with a quantity surveyor.
- Track every cost and update your records weekly.
- Keep 10–15% aside for unexpected issues.
Budget for the full journey. Don’t plan with only the deposit.
8. Watch the Weather
Rain doesn’t just stop work. It damages open trenches, soaked materials, and delays drying.
- Build during dry seasons when possible.
- Cover materials and work areas if rain is expected.
- Schedule slab casting and roofing based on weather reports.
You can’t control the weather, but you can plan around it.
Use local forecasts like Kenya Met Department before setting key construction dates.
9. Communicate With Your Team
Silence slows down progress.
- Hold weekly check-ins with your contractor or supervisor.
- Ask what they need for the next phase.
- Share your expectations and concerns early.
Clear communication keeps your project moving.
10. Stick to Your Scope
Once your design is approved, stick to it.
Avoid:
- Mid-construction design changes
- New add-ons during finishing
- Replacing approved materials halfway through
Changes slow down progress, affect material orders, and confuse the team.
Ask yourself:
- Am I ready to make all key decisions early?
- Is my contractor accountable?
- Do I know what might delay the next phase?
If you don’t have answers, delays are already on the way.
Preventing delays isn’t about working faster. It’s about planning smarter. Midfix works with builders across Kenya to finish projects on time, without cutting corners. Want your project to stay on track? Start by planning for what slows others down.
