Construction delays happen unexpectedly, but they can be prevented by following a few simple tips before, during and after construction begins. In the commercial real estate industry, we see many companies who have had to deal with construction delays and problems in the past. Unfortunately, these companies have learned from their mistakes so that they can avoid these issues in the future and save time and money in the process. There are many causes of construction delays. Some of the most common are weather conditions, change orders, material shortages and problems with architects and engineers. Although these problems can be frustrating and might seem like something that can’t be prevented, the good news is that each one can be avoided with the right preparation and strategies before, during and after construction begins.

Build the Right Structure

The first step in avoiding construction delays is to build the right structure. The best way to do this is to hire an experienced architect and engineer who understand the specific needs of your project. If you don’t have the budget to hire a full-scale architect and engineer, consider hiring a design consultant who works as an intermediary between the architect and engineer and the general contractor. The design consultant can help find the best architect and engineer for the job and keep everyone on the same page throughout the project.Another way to build the right structure is to make sure that you are following the proper zoning or building code for your project. Some zoning and building codes require a larger foundation or thicker walls than others. If you are building a commercial building, you should make sure that it meets the code for the zone where it is located.

Plan for the Unexpected

The best way to avoid construction delays is to plan for the unexpected. This could include weather-related delays, unexpected construction problems or schedule delays caused by the owner or architect. To plan for the unexpected, you must first identify the potential issues that could arise. Then, you should develop a contingency plan to deal with these problems.For example, let’s say that you are building a warehouse and the frost has been unusually severe that fall. As a result, the soil in your property is too saturated to support the weight of the foundation. To avoid this problem, you should budget for an additional foot of soil to add to the foundation.You also should make sure that your blueprints are complete. If there is an issue with the design, the architect can make changes to the blueprint before construction begins. If you are using a design-build contractor, the architect may need to make changes to the blueprint as well.

Hire a Project Manager

Another way to avoid construction delays is to hire a project manager. A project manager can help coordinate the team and keep them on schedule by making sure that materials, equipment and people are delivered on time and the right amount is used.A project manager can help with many other tasks, too, including resolving issues quickly, documenting changes and keeping everyone informed. If there are any issues with the design, the project manager can help solve these problems quickly and easily. If the project is behind schedule, the project manager can help find the source of the problem and solve it quickly.If you are working with a general contractor, you may be able to find someone who is also a project manager.

Develop a Communication Plan

If you are working with a design-build contractor, you should develop a communication plan. This plan should include how often you will meet and who will be in the meeting. If you are using a general contractor, you should meet with them regularly to discuss the project and any issues that might arise. You should also keep a record of all meetings so that you can refer to it if there is a dispute later.

Make a Risk Management Plan

Another way to avoid construction delays is to make a risk management plan. This plan can help you identify potential risks and develop solutions to prevent these problems from happening in the future. If you are using a design-build contractor, you should make the risk management plan with them. If you are using a general contractor, you can make the risk management plan with the architect.

Use Advanced Technology

The last way to avoid construction delays is to use advanced technology. If you are using a design-build contractor, you might be able to use 3-D printing to create custom parts on the site. If you are using a general contractor, you can use virtual reality to see what the finished project will look like before it is built.You can also use drones to take videos and pictures of your property and construction site. These videos and photos can help you identify potential problems and resolve them quickly.

Conclusion

Construction is always risky and there are many potential sources of delays. To avoid these problems, it is important to identify the potential issues, plan for them and develop strategies to deal with them quickly and efficiently.You can avoid construction delays and other issues by hiring a project manager, developing a communication plan and using advanced technology.