Towards Factors Affecting Delays in Construction Projects: A Case of Zimbabwe

Abstract

The problem of delays in the construction sector is a global phenomenon and the construction sector in Zimbabwe is no exception. This research seeks to empirically investigate the factors affecting construction delays in Zimbabwe. A questionnaire survey was used for data collection. The research employed heterogeneous sampling to select target population and one-hundred and twenty (120) questionnaires were completed and analyzed. Using a simple ordinal scale, based on a 5-point Likert Scale, professionals, contractors and consultants expressed their views on the relative importance of forty-six (46) pre-selected factors on construction project delays. Data was analyzed using the Relative Importance Index (RII). The results show that delay in progress payment by owner, difficulties in financing the project and change orders are amongst the twenty-seven (27) most important factors causing delay in construction projects in Zimbabwe. The study recommends attention to be made to the identified delay factors, paying particular attention to the twenty-seven (27) most ranked factors.

Keywords: Client Related Factors, Construction Projects, Delay, Equipment Related Factors, Owner Related Factors, Relative Importance Index, Zimbabwe

JEL Classification: C02, L11, L23, L25, L52, L74, L87, L91, M11, O31