Effect of Building Delay on Construction Project Delivery in Minna, Nigeria

Abstract

Delays in construction projects are highly expensive and often lead to disputes and claims. Therefore, monitoring project progress is crucial to prevent delays or detect them early. This study investigated the impact of building delays on construction project delivery in Minna, aiming to minimize future delays. Data were gathered from construction professionals, with 184 questionnaires distributed and 156 returned, yielding an 85% response rate. The data were analyzed using percentages and mean item scores (MIS). The study identified ten key causes of delays in building construction, with the most significant being a lack of funds (MIS = 4.85), inaccurate material estimates (MIS = 4.76), and insufficient worker motivation (MIS = 4.56). Overall, all causes were deemed significant (average MIS = 3.91). It also highlighted eight effects of building delays, with time overruns (MIS = 4.85) and increased project costs (MIS = 4.61) being the most severe, while project abandonment was the least significant (MIS = 2.80). On average, all the effects of delays were considered significant (average MIS = 3.69). The most effective strategies to minimize or eliminate delays included securing reliable funding and ensuring timely payments (MIS = 4.90), proper material procurement (MIS = 4.66), and strategic planning with systematic controls (MIS = 4.52). All strategies were found to be effective (average MIS = 3.76).Building delays have a significant impact on project delivery. To reduce delays and their effects, the study recommended thorough planning, ensuring adequate funding from project inception, and engaging competent professionals to manage the design and cost control throughout the project. The study also identified eight major effects of building delays, with time overruns (MIS = 4.85) and cost increases (MIS = 4.61) being the most notable. Abandonment of projects (MIS = 2.80) was the least significant effect. On average, the effects of delays were significant (average MIS = 3.69).To mitigate delays, the most effective strategies identified were securing reliable funding and timely payment of interim certificates (MIS = 4.90), proper material procurement (MIS = 4.66), and effective planning and control (MIS = 4.52). The average effectiveness of the strategies was rated at 3.76.The study concluded that delays significantly affect project delivery, and recommended that clients ensure proper planning, secure sufficient funding, and engage qualified professionals from the project's inception to minimize delays and their impacts.