The 7 most common reasons for delays in the construction schedule + the most successful strategies for avoiding them

The seven most common reasons for delays in the construction schedule

… are not only logistical challenges, but also moments that require patience, adaptability and teamwork:

1. Unexpected weather conditions: When the heavens open up and rain turns construction sites into muddy wastelands or frost makes outdoor work impossible, all work comes to a standstill.
   Example: An unexpected snowstorm delays concrete work because temperatures are too low.
2. Supply bottlenecks for materials: The globalization of supply chains can lead to serious delays if a specific material does not arrive on time.
   Example: A delay in the delivery of steel beams from overseas holds up the entire structural phase.
3. Changes to the project scope: Sometimes the client sees new possibilities during construction, which leads to last-minute changes and therefore delays.
   Example: The client decides to add an additional floor, which requires a new plan.
4. Labor shortage: The lack of qualified workers can bring a project to a standstill, especially in times of economic upturn.
   Example: The sudden departure of an experienced site manager leaves a key project without leadership.
5. Technical problems: Every project carries the risk of unexpected technical problems that require creative solutions.
   Example: When digging the foundations, an unexpected boulder is discovered that requires additional time to remove.
6. Permit delays: Bureaucracy often works slower than desired, and delays in obtaining building permits can slow down progress.
   Example: The final approval for the construction of a new part of a building is delayed because environmental assessments take longer than expected.
7. Conflicts within the project team or with contractors: Misunderstandings and conflicts can lead to friction that slows down progress.
   Example: Differences of opinion between the architect and the contractor over the interpretation of construction plans lead to delays in execution.

Each of these challenges reminds us that flexibility, communication and commitment are essential to navigating the inevitable waves of the construction process.
They are not only obstacles, but also opportunities to grow together as a team and find solutions that strengthen the project and ultimately lead to success.

How do you prevent a construction schedule postponement?

To combat the most common reasons for construction schedule slippage, several preventative strategies can be employed.
Here are two effective and popular strategies for each of the 7 problems:

1. Unexpected weather conditions:
   • Early weather analysis and planning: Regular review of weather forecasts during project planning and execution to minimize weather-related risks.
   • Adaptable scheduling: Build buffer time into the schedule for weather-sensitive work and schedule indoor work during expected periods of bad weather.
2. Supply bottlenecks for materials:
   • Early ordering and storage: Ordering materials well in advance and storing secure stocks on site to avoid delays caused by supply bottlenecks.
   • Alternative suppliers and materials: Identification and qualification of alternative suppliers and materials that can serve as substitutes if the preferred options are not available.
3. Changes to the project scope:
   • Clear change management processes: Establishment of a defined procedure for change requests, including impact analyses, before changes are approved.
   • Effective communication and documentation: Ensure that all changes are clearly communicated, documented and approved by all stakeholders to avoid misunderstandings.
4. Labor shortage:
   • Forward-looking personnel planning: Early identification of personnel requirements and proactive recruitment to meet demand.
   • Training and qualification: Investment in the training and further education of the existing workforce in order to develop skills internally and be less dependent on external personnel.
5. Technical problems:
   • Pre-checking and testing: Carrying out technical checks and tests in the planning phase to identify and solve potential problems.
   • Expert teams and consultants: Use of expert teams or consultants for specific technical challenges to develop and implement solutions.
6. Delays in approval:
   • Early submission and follow-up: Submission of all necessary documents to the relevant authorities as early as possible and regular follow-up of the approval status.
   • Preliminary work: Planning construction work that can begin without the pending permits to make efficient use of time.
7. Conflicts within the project team or with contractors:
   • Conflict resolution mechanisms: Establish clear mechanisms for conflict resolution, including mediation and arbitration, to resolve disagreements quickly.
   • Regular team meetings: holding regular meetings with all those involved to ensure the flow of information and to identify and address problems at an early stage.

These strategies aim to increase the project’s resilience to the most common causes of schedule delays by emphasizing proactive planning, communication and flexibility.