Construction projects don’t always go smoothly, and it should be expected that there can be some bumps along the way. That said, it’s essential to know the difference between a minor hiccup and a foreboding sign of trouble so that you can still save your project and hit your goals successfully in the end. Here are some telltale signs you should be aware of:
There is a lack of proper equipment.
Sure, sometimes equipment breaks down and such. But if your workers aren’t able to come in with enough gear to go around and they have to deal with consistently broken-down equipment or lacking tools, this can spell a major hit to productivity and even multiplies the hazards that are already present in the location.
If this is apparent, it’s time to get some construction PPE suppliers on the job to supply everyone on-site and to make sure that necessary equipment repairs and replacements be done as soon as possible. These extra outs of cash will be better in the long run.
The contract is not being followed.
Any contractor would know that this is the biggest no-no and can only spell trouble later on. If any suppliers start renegotiating or any party starts moving outside the bounds of any agreements signed in the beginning, it’s time to hit pause and make sure that everyone aligns again before moving forward. That is a must if you want to ensure that everything is still within the right means and that no one is being under-compensated or getting away with things under the table.
The design is turning out to be sloppy.
It can be due to a lack of a hired crew’s ability to follow through on a designer’s vision, or it can be troublesome from the start if the designer has already come up with a poorly-executed design that will then be made a reality. Sometimes, these only come to light when the project is already far underway. Be aware of the biggest mistakes that come from the blueprint stage so you can spot these pitfalls before you fall into them.
Deadlines are being pushed back.
If deadlines keep getting pushed back, it can be the smoke signal that things are not coming together as expected. Hiccups with results, low productivity, and multiple mistakes can lead to delays that are not only a waste of time but also cost more money. Delays happen a lot, with 75% of construction projects unable to hit deadlines. However, it’s important to recognise when they are becoming an all too often occurrence that keeps things in limbo.
Workers’ morale is low.
As with any industry, workers who feel underappreciated and under-compensated churn out work that isn’t as good. Not only can this spell slower productivity but can end up with sloppily done jobs that end up tarnishing the finished outcome. Make sure you’re in tune with your employees’ needs and how they are coming along.
All of these pitfalls are avoidable, as long as you are keen enough to spot them on time and make the necessary adjustments.
