Construction professionals’ perception on the causes and effects of project delay in Lusaka, Zambia

Abstract

The construction industry is a key sector in the development and economic growth of Zambia, however, the industry has not escaped the challenges facing other countries worldwide in terms of delivering construction projects on time as stipulated in the contracts. This paper assesses the construction professionals’ perception on the major causes of construction project delays and there consequential effects of on the Lusaka – Zambia, construction industry. The data used in this paper were derived from both primary and secondary sources. The secondary data was collected via a detailed review of related literature. The primary data was collected through a well-structured questionnaire which was distributed to construction professionals, which include: Architects, quantity surveyors, builders, civil engineers, land surveyors and project managers. Out of the 50 questionnaires sent out, 32 were received back representing 64% response rate. Data received from the questionnaires was analysed using descriptive statistics procedures. Findings from the study revealed that delay in progress payments, difficulties in financing projects by the contractor, delay in approving major changes in the scope of work amongst others, were the major causes of construction delays. The study also revealed that extension of project time and cost over runs were the major effects of construction project delays. The study contributes to the body of knowledge on the subject of the causes and the effects of construction project delays in Lusaka, Zambia