Top Construction Risks and How to Mitigate Them

The construction industry is a critical sector in the United States, responsible for shaping the nation’s infrastructure and driving economic growth. Valued at over $1.6 trillion in 2021, the industry accounts for an impressive 4.3% of the total GDP, with over 7.8 million employees. It’s a vital part of the economy, supporting businesses, communities, and individuals across the country.

However, despite its significant contributions, the construction industry is not without its challenges. A three-year study found that only about 31% of construction projects finished within 10% of their original budgets, highlighting the risks inherent in the industry. Construction projects are complex, with numerous stakeholders, changing requirements, and evolving regulations. Risks abound at every stage, from design to completion, making it essential to identify and manage potential issues proactively.

Let’s explore the most significant construction risks facing the industry today, including labor shortages, project management inefficiencies, delays in material delivery, subcontractor performance issues, poor communication or collaboration among project stakeholders, and unanticipated design changes or scope modifications. We’ll also provide valuable insights on how to mitigate these risks and ensure the safety, efficiency, and financial stability of your projects. By understanding and addressing these risks, you can create a safer, more productive work environment, build stronger relationships with stakeholders, and protect your bottom line.

What are Construction Risks?

Construction risks are defined as potential events or factors that may negatively impact a construction project. These risks can include safety hazards, environmental concerns, legal disputes, and financial issues. The successful completion of any construction project depends on identifying and mitigating these risks.

Risk vs. Hazard:

It is essential to distinguish between risk and hazard when managing construction projects. A hazard is a potential source of harm, while risk is the likelihood of that harm occurring. To manage construction risks effectively, it is necessary to identify and evaluate all potential hazards, prioritize them based on their likelihood and severity, and implement measures to reduce their impact.

Failure to manage construction risks can result in significant losses in terms of time, money, and reputation. For example, if a construction project experience delays or fails to meet safety standards, it may lead to legal disputes, damage to the company’s reputation, or financial penalties.

To mitigate construction risks, it is necessary to develop and implement risk management plans. This involves identifying potential hazards, evaluating the risks associated with those hazards, and developing a plan to mitigate or eliminate those risks. Effective risk management plans should include measures to prevent or mitigate hazards, as well as contingency plans to address any unforeseen events. By understanding and addressing these risks, the likelihood of delays, accidents, and other negative impacts are reduced, resulting in a successful project completion.

Common Types of Risks in Construction Projects

Construction projects are inherently complex and as a result various risks can arise during the project lifecycle that can have a significant impact on the project’s success. These risks include financial risks, productivity risks, safety risks, environmental risks, and legal risks. By understanding these common types of risks and developing effective risk management strategies, stakeholders can mitigate potential negative impacts and ensure project success. Here are the most common types of risks in construction projects:

Financial Risks In CRE

Financial Risks:

Budget overruns due to inaccurate estimates or cost increases: This refers to a situation where the actual costs of a construction project exceed the estimated costs. Inaccurate cost estimates or unexpected cost increases are significant financial risks that can impact the successful completion of construction projects. These risks may arise due to factors such as changes in the scope of work, material and labor cost fluctuations, and unforeseen site conditions. To manage these risks, it is crucial to develop accurate cost estimates, implement effective change management procedures, and track project costs closely. Failure to manage these risks can lead to delays, cancellations, or disputes between the parties involved in the project.
Inadequate cash flow or financing: Inadequate cash flow or financing is a major financial risk that can arise due to delays in payments, unexpected costs, or changes in the project’s scope. This risk can lead to the project’s suspension or termination, disputes between the parties involved, and reputational damage. To manage this risk, it is essential to develop a robust financing plan, monitor cash flow closely, and implement effective payment management procedures.
Supply chain impacts: Disruptions in the supply chain that affect the timely delivery of materials, equipment, or services required for a construction project are significant financial risks that can lead to delays, cost overruns, and project cancellations. These delays can lead to increased costs and a decrease in the quality of work. These disruptions may arise due to factors such as transportation issues, trade restrictions, or supplier bankruptcy. To manage this risk, it is crucial to develop effective supply chain management procedures, build relationships with key suppliers, and implement contingency plans to address any disruptions.
Increase in material costs: An unexpected increase in material costs is a financial risk that can arise due to changes in market demand or supply chain disruptions. This risk can lead to cost overruns, delays, and disputes between the parties involved. To manage this risk, it is essential to develop effective cost management procedures, track material costs closely, and build relationships with key suppliers.
Economic downturns affecting demand or project viability: Economic downturns such as recessions, high inflation, or a decline in market demand can significantly impact a construction project’s viability. These risks can lead to reduced project viability, delayed payments, or difficulty in obtaining financing, resulting in the project’s suspension or termination, disputes between the parties involved, and reputational damage. To manage this risk, it is crucial to develop a robust economic forecasting plan, monitor economic conditions closely, and implement effective risk management procedures.

Productivity Risks:

Inefficient project management or coordination: Inefficient project management or coordination results from project managers’ inability to effectively plan, schedule, and execute construction projects. This risk is caused by various factors, such as poor communication, inadequate resources, or a lack of experience. It poses a significant challenge in construction projects, leading to delays, increased costs, and a decrease in the quality of work. Additionally, it can result in safety hazards and an increase in the number of accidents on construction sites. Because of a lack of standardization in project management practices and a lack of investment in project manager training programs, the risk of inefficient project management or coordination has become a common concern in the construction industry. The complexity of modern construction projects has also made it difficult for project managers to plan and execute projects effectively.
Unanticipated design changes or scope modifications: These changes occur when a project experiences unexpected alterations to the original design or scope. Such changes can result from changes in project requirements, changes in regulations, or changes in the client’s needs. This risk is a major challenge in construction projects as unanticipated design changes or scope modifications can lead to delays, increased costs, and a decrease in the quality of work. Additionally, unanticipated changes can result in rework, which can further delay the project and increase costs. A lack of flexibility in the project plan can leave the project vulnerable to unanticipated changes, making it difficult to adapt to unexpected situations.
Labor shortages or unavailability of skilled workers: Labor shortages or unavailability of skilled workers is a result of lack of skilled labor or workers with the necessary knowledge and experience to complete construction projects. This risk is caused by various factors, such as demographic changes, economic fluctuations, or shifts in the labor market. It poses a significant challenge to construction projects, leading to delays, increased costs, and a decrease in the quality of work. Additionally, a lack of investment in education and training programs has contributed to the shortage of skilled workers in the construction industry.
Delays in material delivery or equipment availability: Delays in material delivery or equipment availability are results from disruptions in the supply chain that affect the timely delivery of materials, equipment, or services required for a construction project. This risk is caused by various factors, such as transportation issues, supplier delays, or unforeseen events. It poses a significant challenge in construction projects, leading to schedule delays, increased costs, and a decrease in the quality of work. The risk of material delivery or equipment availability delays has become more common because of several factors, including globalization, which has made supply chains more complex and vulnerable to disruptions. Furthermore, just-in-time inventory management practices have made construction projects more reliant on timely material deliveries, increasing the risk of delays.
Subcontractor performance issues: Subcontractor performance issues result from subcontractors failing to deliver quality work on time. This risk is caused by various factors, such as a lack of experience, inadequate resources, or a lack of communication. It poses a significant challenge in construction projects, leading to delays, increased costs, and a decrease in the quality of work. Additionally, subcontractor performance issues can result in safety hazards and an increase in the number of accidents on construction sites. A lack of oversight of subcontractors, a lack of standardization in subcontractor contracts, and a lack of investment in subcontractor training programs all contributed to the severity of subcontractor performance issues.
Poor communication or collaboration among project stakeholders: Poor communication or collaboration among project stakeholders is caused by various factors, such as a lack of communication protocols, a lack of trust, or a lack of experience. It poses a significant challenge in construction projects, leading to delays, increased costs, and a decrease in the quality of work. Additionally, poor communication or collaboration can result in safety hazards and an increase in the number of accidents on construction sites. The risk of poor communication or collaboration among project stakeholders has increased as a result of several factors, including the complexity of modern construction projects, a lack of standardization in communication protocols, and a lack of investment in project stakeholder training programs. Furthermore, different stakeholders’ use of different software and tools can complicate communication and collaboration efforts.

Document, Legal, and Contract Risks:

Incomplete or inaccurate project documentation: Incomplete or inaccurate project documentation is a significant risk for construction projects, as it can lead to confusion, miscommunication, and errors during construction. Incomplete documentation can refer to missing or incomplete project plans, scope, requirements, specifications, or any other important project documents. Similarly, inaccurate documentation could refer to wrong or outdated information, poorly designed plans, or unclear specifications. The risks posed by incomplete or inaccurate project documentation include delays, cost overruns, project failure, or legal disputes. Incomplete or inaccurate project documentation is often caused by poor project management practices, a lack of attention to detail, and inadequate communication and collaboration between project team members.
Ambiguities or discrepancies in contracts: Ambiguities or discrepancies in contracts refer to situations where the terms and conditions of a contract are unclear, vague, or contradictory. This can lead to disagreements between parties, misunderstandings, and disputes, leading to project delays, cost overruns, or legal action. Ambiguities can arise from poorly drafted contracts, inconsistent use of terminology, or lack of clarity in the contractual obligations and payment terms. To reduce the risk of contract ambiguities or discrepancies, stakeholders must have a thorough understanding of the contract’s terms and conditions. This includes conducting a thorough review of the contract language, identifying potential ambiguities, and employing precise and consistent terminology.
Non-compliance with local, state, or federal regulations: Non-compliance with local, state, or federal regulations is a significant risk in construction projects, as it can lead to legal action, fines, penalties, and reputational damage. Non-compliance can arise due to a failure to meet the legal requirements or standards set by the relevant authorities, including building codes, safety regulations, or environmental laws. To minimize the possibility of noncompliance, stakeholders must first understand the regulatory requirements and ensure that all relevant regulations are met before beginning any construction activity. This includes obtaining all required permits, licenses, and approvals from the appropriate authorities, as well as adhering to all safety and environmental regulations and meeting all building code requirements.
Disputes over contractual obligations or payment terms: Disputes over contractual obligations or payment terms are a common risk in construction projects, as they can lead to delays, cost overruns, legal action, or damage to business relationships. Disputes can arise due to a failure to perform contractual obligations, disagreements over payment terms, or changing business circumstances. Stakeholders must have a clear and comprehensive contract management system in place to reduce the risk of disputes over contractual obligations or payment terms. This includes identifying and mitigating potential disputes during the contract negotiation phase, monitoring contract performance on a regular basis, and promptly resolving any disputes that arise.
Delays in obtaining permits or approvals: Delays in obtaining permits or approvals are significant risks in construction projects that can occur when there is a failure to acquire the necessary permits or approvals from relevant authorities in a timely manner. This can result in delays, increased costs, and potential project failure. The risk of delays in obtaining permits or approvals arises from inadequate planning, an inadequate understanding of the regulatory requirements, or inadequate communication and collaboration with the relevant authorities. To lower the likelihood of permit or approval delays, project managers must engage in proper planning and communication with relevant authorities. This includes identifying and comprehending all necessary permits and approvals for the project, establishing a realistic timeline for obtaining them, and communicating openly and transparently with the authorities.

Safety Risks:

Construction workers face numerous hazards and risks on job sites, and managing these risks is essential for ensuring their safety and well-being. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Fatal Four and the American Industrial Hygiene Association’s (AIHA) Focus Four for Health provide a comprehensive overview of the most common safety risks in the construction industry.

OSHA’s Fatal Four:

Falls: Falls from heights are a leading cause of fatalities and injuries in the construction industry. Workers can fall when working on roofs, ladders, scaffolds, or other elevated surfaces without proper fall protection. Employers must install fall protection equipment such as guardrails, safety nets, personal fall arrest systems, and train workers on how to use them to manage this risk.
Struck by Object: Workers can be struck by moving, swinging, or flying objects such as equipment, materials, or vehicles, resulting in serious injuries and fatalities. Employers must implement measures to prevent or control the movement of equipment and materials, such as barricades, warning signs, and personal protective equipment, to minimize this danger, and workers must be trained on how to recognize and avoid hazards.
Electrocutions: Workers in the construction industry face a high risk of electrocution when working near power lines, using electrical equipment, or working with temporary power sources. To combat this danger, employers must utilize electrical safety procedures such as hazard assessments, the use of personal protective equipment, and training workers on how to identify and avoid electrical hazards.
Caught-in or Caught-between: Workers can become caught in or between equipment or objects, leading to crush injuries, amputations, or fatalities. Employers must implement measures to prevent workers from becoming entangled in or between equipment or objects, such as proper guarding, lockout/tagout procedures, and training workers on how to recognize and avoid hazards, to address this danger.

AIHA’s Focus Four for Health:

Noise: Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead to hearing loss, tinnitus, and other hearing-related health issues. To manage this risk, employers must implement noise control measures, including engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment, and train workers on how to recognize and avoid noise hazards.
Airborne Contaminants: Exposure to dust, fumes, and other airborne contaminants can cause respiratory and other health problems. To take the right steps, employers must instill measures to control exposure to these contaminants, such as ventilation, respiratory protection, and work practices, as well as train employees on how to recognize and avoid hazards.
Heat Stress: Workers who work in hot environments or with heat-generating equipment are at risk of developing heat stress, heat stroke, and other heat-related illnesses. To handle this danger, employers must introduce heat-related illness prevention measures such as providing cool rest areas, hydration, and training workers on how to recognize and respond to heat-related illness symptoms.
Material Handling Injuries: Incorrect lifting, carrying, or moving of materials can lead to sprains, strains, and other musculoskeletal injuries. Employers must implement musculoskeletal injury prevention measures such as ergonomic work practices, lifting aids, and training workers on how to properly lift and carry materials to manage this risk.

Environmental Risks:

Adverse weather conditions causing delays or damage: Adverse weather conditions refer to severe weather events, such as heavy rainfall, snow, extreme heat or cold, hurricanes, and tornadoes, that can delay or damage construction projects. These events can cause delays in the completion of the project, resulting in increased costs due to additional labor and materials needed to complete the work. They can also cause damage to the project, resulting in rework and repairs, which can be costly and time-consuming. Adverse weather conditions are a risk in construction projects because they are often unpredictable and can occur at any time, leading to delays or damage that can impact the project’s overall success.
Environmental contamination or pollution: Environmental contamination or pollution refers to the presence or introduction of hazardous materials or pollutants into the environment. Construction activities can produce pollutants such as dust, noise, and chemicals that can be harmful to the environment and health of workers and bystanders. Construction projects that involve the excavation or handling of hazardous materials, such as asbestos, lead, or mercury, are at a higher risk of causing environmental contamination or pollution. Environmental contamination or pollution is a risk in construction projects because it can result in fines, lawsuits, and damage to the environment.
Non-compliance with environmental regulations: Environmental regulations are laws or rules that govern environmental protection and sustainability. Non-compliance with these regulations can result in fines, legal consequences, and damage to the environment. Construction projects must comply with environmental regulations such as the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act. Non-compliance with environmental regulations is a risk in construction projects because it can lead to legal consequences, project suspension or delays.
Unforeseen geological or soil conditions affecting construction: Unforeseen geological or soil conditions refer to unexpected geological or soil conditions that can affect the construction project’s progress. These conditions include rock formations, soil erosion, and soil instability, which can impact the project’s foundation, drainage, and stability. Unforeseen geological or soil conditions are a risk in construction projects because they can lead to additional costs due to the need for additional resources and equipment, delays in the project’s completion, and safety hazards. These conditions may not be identifiable until the construction phase begins, making it difficult to predict and mitigate their impact.

Strategies for Mitigating Construction Risks in CRE

Strategies for Mitigating Construction Risks:

The impact of construction project risks can be significant and widespread, affecting project timelines, budgets, and quality. Delays, cost overruns, and compromised quality are common outcomes of construction project risks. Therefore, stakeholders need to identify, assess, and manage project risks proactively to minimize their impact and ensure successful project outcomes. Effective risk management practices, such as risk assessments, contingency planning, project management oversight, and project status reports, can help mitigate the impact of construction risks on timelines, budgets, and quality.

Construction Risk Assessments:

A construction risk assessment involves identifying and evaluating potential risks associated with a construction project, including safety hazards, environmental concerns, legal disputes, and financial issues. The process of risk assessment involves identifying potential risks, evaluating the likelihood and severity of those risks, and developing effective strategies to manage or mitigate those risks. The construction risk assessment process is typically conducted by a team of experienced professionals such as AEI who have expertise in the different aspects of construction projects. The assessment should be comprehensive, taking into consideration all potential risks and their potential impact on the project. By conducting a construction risk assessment, stakeholders can develop a deep understanding of the potential risks and develop effective risk management strategies. This allows stakeholders to proactively identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate those risks, ultimately reducing the negative impact on the project’s success.

Contingency Planning:

Contingency planning involves developing plans for addressing unforeseen events or risks that may arise during a construction project. This includes identifying potential risks, developing response plans, and allocating resources to mitigate the impact of those risks. Contingency planning should be a comprehensive process that considers all potential risks and their potential impact on the project. This includes identifying potential risks, developing a response plan for each risk, and allocating resources to mitigate the impact of those risks. The response plan for each potential risk should be flexible and adaptable, allowing for adjustments as the project progresses. It should also include clear communication and collaboration among project stakeholders to ensure that everyone is aware of the contingency plan and their role in implementing it. This reduces the negative impact on the project’s success, ensuring the successful completion of the project.

Project Management Oversight:

Project management oversight, one of the many services offered by AEI involves providing expert guidance to oversee the construction project’s progress. This oversight includes monitoring project progress, identifying potential risks, and developing effective strategies to manage those risks. Experienced project managers can effectively manage the project’s progress, ensuring that it is completed on time, within budget, and according to the project plan. Project management oversight also involves effective communication and collaboration among project stakeholders. This allows for a proactive approach to risk management, ensuring that potential risks are identified and addressed before they impact the project’s success. By engaging in effective project management oversight, stakeholders can effectively manage construction project risks, ensuring the successful completion of the project.

Project Status Reports:

Project status reports prepared by AEI provide regular updates on the project’s progress, including potential risks and strategies to manage those risks. These reports allow stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding the project’s progress and risk management strategies. Effective project status reports should be comprehensive, providing detailed information on the project’s progress and potential risks. They should also include clear and concise communication and collaboration among project stakeholders. Project status reports can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of risk management strategies. By tracking the progress of the project and the effectiveness of the strategies, stakeholders can adjust as necessary to ensure the successful completion of the project. Project status reports are a valuable tool in managing construction project risks. They provide regular updates on the project’s milestones, potential risks, and strategies to manage those risks, allowing stakeholders to make informed decisions and ensure the successful completion of the project.

Construction Site Safety Practices to Reduce Risks

Construction sites are inherently risky environments, with the potential for accidents and injuries. However, there are several construction site safety practices that can help reduce risks and create a safer work environment such as:

Develop and implement a comprehensive safety plan: A safety plan should be created for every construction project and should include hazard identification, risk assessment, and mitigation strategies. The plan should be reviewed and updated regularly.
Provide adequate safety training: All workers should receive safety training that covers the specific hazards associated with their job duties. This training should include proper use of equipment, hazard recognition, and emergency procedures.
Use personal protective equipment (PPE): Workers should be provided with appropriate PPE, including hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, and safety footwear. PPE should be always worn when on the construction site.
Maintain good housekeeping: A clean and organized work area can help prevent accidents and injuries. Good housekeeping practices include keeping walkways clear, removing debris, and properly storing materials and equipment.
Use proper equipment and tools: All equipment and tools should be properly maintained, inspected, and used according to manufacturer’s instructions. Workers should also be trained on proper use of equipment and tools.
Establish a safety culture: A culture of safety should be established on the construction site, where all workers are encouraged to identify hazards and report unsafe conditions. Workers should also be recognized and rewarded for practicing safe work habits.

Final Thoughts on Construction Risks:

Effective risk management in construction projects is essential to ensure the successful completion of any construction project. Risks can negatively impact the safety, efficiency, and financial stability of a project, and stakeholders must develop and implement effective risk management strategies to mitigate these risks
If you’re serious about ensuring the safety, efficiency, and financial stability of your construction project, don’t hesitate to leverage the expertise of AEI’s Construction Risk Management Services. Our experienced team can help you identify potential risks, develop effective risk management strategies, and provide project oversight and status reports to ensure the successful completion of your project.

We understand the importance of managing construction project risks, and our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each project. We use advanced tools and techniques to identify potential risks and develop effective mitigation strategies, providing you with peace of mind and confidence in your project’s success. Contact us today to learn more about our Construction Risk Management Services and how we can help you effectively manage construction project risks. With AEI by your side, you can rest assured that your construction project is in good hands. Reach out to speak with one of our consultants today.

CRM Services Offered by AEI:

Construction Risk Assessment (CRA)
Construction Risk Assessment with Site Visit (CRA w/SV)
Conceptual Budget Review (CBR)
Property Improvement Plan (Hospitality CBR)
Cost-to-Complete (CTC or C2C)
CRA, CBR, CTC Reliance Letter
Project Status Report (PSR)
Project Status Report Reliance Letter
Construction Close Out Report
Project Management Oversight

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