Construction may have been classified alongside other essential industries in some states and countries. However, COVID-related issues can still impact your construction project negatively. Such effects can cause delays in the completion of your project. As such, it’s crucial to know how you can mitigate construction delays during this pandemic. Here are some of the best ways to do that. 

Identify Possible Causes of Delay in Your Project 

Issues with the supply chain, government restrictions, and labor shortages are some of the things that can delay your construction project. Labor shortages have always been a growing problem in the industry in most countries and states. As such, the COVID-19 pandemic can easily exacerbate it. 

If you plan to import construction materials, their suppliers might not be classified as essential service providers. Thus, their delivery might be delayed and this can occasion delay in your construction project. Therefore, take time to consider all factors that may delay the completion of your construction project and come up with appropriate mitigation measures. Your contractors and material suppliers can help you come up with a more realistic timeline during COVID-19. 

Understand the Contract 

Don’t rush to sign the contract that the contractor presents without reading it. Instead, take your time to read and understand the details of your contract. Understand the timelines and liability for any delay, as well as, the cost impacts. Essentially, understand your obligations and rights regarding delays before you sign the contract for your construction project. 

Maintain Continuous Communication 

The COVID-19 pandemic is unprecedented. Its impacts have been felt by every sector, including the construction industry. A good way to mitigate the construction delays that may be occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic is to communicate. For instance, if there will be a delay in material delivery, the supplier should communicate. If the labor shortage at the site will delay the completion of the building, the contractor should communicate. This will prevent unnecessary conflict among the involved parties. 

Understanding contractual rights, communicating effectively, and being proactive can help you mitigate against construction delays during the COVID-19 pandemic. Follow these tips to ensure that your construction project doesn’t come to a standstill due to this pandemic.