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Construction projects have many different moving parts. Even with proper planning, there is still a chance that things will not go as expected. This can result in budget and time overruns. Rework is one of the most common problems in construction; one that can have a devastating effect on the cost and schedule of a project. This is why it is important to find ways to reduce or eliminate rework. To do this successfully, construction managers need to understand why rework occurs and its consequences in construction. Read on to learn more.
Common Causes of Construction Rework
Generally, the sources of construction rework can be classified as changes, errors, and omissions. However, it is important to understand the exact reasons why rework occurs. Below are a few.
- Improper planning: Without proper planning, a construction project can be difficult to manage. Issues like inadequate involvement of the client, insufficient briefing regarding the project, unavailability of funds, and schedule pressures can lead to mistakes and errors.
- Poor document control: To avoid problems, all-important project documents have to be coordinated. Inadequate preparation of contract documents, missing documents, discrepancies between documents, and deviation from project documents can cause construction rework.
- Design inconsistency: A poor or incomplete design that does not meet the required standards can result in changes, errors, and omissions. Such problems can be caused by a lack of professionalism or lack of knowledge in the design and construction process.
- Poor quality materials: If building materials do not meet technical and structural requirements, construction rework may be needed to correct work that had not been done right the first time. Problems can also arise from ineffective procurement methods that result in delays in the delivery of materials and equipment.
- Poor communication and collaboration: Different stakeholders have to communicate regularly and collaborate to ensure the success of a construction project. Lack of communication and collaboration is bound to result in mistakes and conflicts among stakeholders.
- Human resource challenges: Lack of skilled labor, poor supervision, ineffective management, and failure to implement quality control will lead to an increase in errors at the worksite. This will ultimately make construction rework necessary.
The Impact of Rework on a Project
The consequences of construction rework can be serious and far-reaching. Oftentimes, redoing a process or activity to rectify errors will harm overall project performance. Here’s how.
Loss of Money
Constructing a building is a costly affair. Design changes, errors, and omissions will only increase costs. Mistakes will not only lead to wastage, but you will also require additional materials and extra labor to correct them. This will push up the total cost of the project.
Loss of Time and Efforts
Rework can affect workflow, making it difficult to complete the project within the time limit set out in the contract document. Also, the additional time invested in rework can affect the productivity of workers. Lastly, delays will result in customer dissatisfaction and reduced profits for the construction company.
Frustration
Working at a construction site can be taxing. Losing time and money due to mistakes and errors can take a toll on you. When a project does not run smoothly and work has to be redone, both workers and contractors can get frustrated. The problem may result in the demotivation of workers, a factor that will negatively impact their productivity.
Strained Relationships
When it occurs frequently, rework can put a strain on the relationship between the parties working together. Without proper dispute resolution mechanisms, you may end up facing breach of contract consequences, warranty claims, and adversarial legal battles. This will not only compromise the success of the project but could also affect the construction company.
How Construction Managers Can Prevent Rework
Now that you know what causes construction rework and the consequences it can have, it is important to learn how to reduce or eliminate it. Preventing rework will enable you to avoid unnecessary headaches, maintain strong relationships and operate profitably. Here are some tips to help you get started.
Invest in Digital and Connected Solutions
The right technology can go a long way in helping you to prevent construction rework. Automating various construction processes removes repetition and reduces the risk of errors. However, you should invest in construction-specific tools that will help you manage your project effectively. In addition to simplifying processes, these tools will provide you with valuable insights so you can make informed decisions faster.
Ensure Proper Preparation
Before beginning any project, ensure that you are adequately prepared. Perform a comprehensive constructability review and ensure you have the equipment and manpower required. Part of preparing for a project will also involve aligning teams and making sure there is a coordinated and clear flow of information. Lastly, create a detailed plan to help you achieve the set goals.
Be Diligent About Prequalifying Your Project Partners
Depending on the nature and size of a project, subcontracting may be right for you. However, to truly tame rework, make sure that all workers are fully trained to perform the tasks that will be assigned to them. One way of doing this is to prequalify subcontractors. When you gather and assess information about the subcontractors, you will be in a position to know the projects they can comfortably take on.
Set High Quality Standards
Without a formal quality control process in place, you are likely to face rework. It is important to have a simple, documented process that will help to ensure the quality of the project is maintained at all times. Make sure you agree with the client on what constitutes quality and communicate this information to all workers.
To keep the project safe at all times, be sure to track issues regularly. This will enable you to detect defects and proactively address them.
Ensure Effective Communication
Construction managers have to handle a lot of administrative tasks daily. Failure to keep all parties in the loop at all times can lead to costly mistakes. For effective communication and improved team collaboration, consider utilizing cloud-based technology. A single data source will ensure the right people can easily access the information they need to perform their duties.
Emphasize Ongoing Training
Appropriate training will help to improve industry competencies as well as risk management. This will in turn reduce the likelihood of mistakes, resulting in lower rework costs. The training should apply to all workers, including construction managers.
Are you looking to build cheaper and faster? Essel Environmental can help you get the results you need. Contact us today to learn more.