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30 Construction Risks | checklist with download

by | reviewed 14/06/2022
This is a list of 30 risks that impact Construction projects. This is not an exhaustive list but is a good starting point for your risk register . It doesn't include risks associated with particular areas of construction for example right of way risks or environmental risks.
construction risks

List of 30 Construction risks

  1. Aerially deposited lead (ADL) contamination from use of leaded petrol/gasoline is discovered late.
  2. Changes require additional resources or different resources than predicted causing resourcing conflicts/delays.
  3. Choice of plant or cranes is found to be unsuitable during construction.
  4. Construction staging (storage) areas are not large enough.
  5. Contractual disputes between client and contractor or contractor and subcontractor.
  6. Deep excavations needed in bad ground leading to risk of collapse, falling materials etc.
  7. Designs for temporary excavation and shoring system are not correct
  8. Errors in method statement s lead to delays.
  9. Errors in the quantity surveys.
  10. Failure to achieve the quality required and/or functional requirements of the build.
  11. False work design is not sufficient for example it is not complete or accurate.
  12. Fire risk from arson, construction technique or removal waste.
  13. Liquidated and ascertained damages are insufficient to cover costs if project finished late.
  14. Multiple Change requests are needed due to unexpected site conditions
  15. Download this Construction Risk list in PDF .
    Download this Construction Risk list in PDF .
  16. New or innovative technology is used in the construction which may lead to unfrozen complications and delays.
  17. Not enough time allowed for getting Permits
  18. Overhead power lines not identified and found obstruct construction work
  19. Poor inaccurate or over optimistic contract time estimates
  20. Road closures or partial street closures are delayed because of inadequate coordination and planning. For example not informing the community or not given sufficient notice of works.
  21. Sensitive or protected habitats delay demolition or construction for example Bat habitat.
  22. Special parts or equipment has to be manufactured to provide the utilities leading to longer lead times and delays to start of construction.
  23. Subcontractor delay or resourcing problem.
  24. Subcontractor in has financial issues/cash flow issues.
  25. Theft from the site by workers or break-ins caused by insufficient security.
  26. Unexpected buried man-made objects or hazardous waste is found on site.
  27. Unexpected paleontology or archaeological artefacts found.
  28. Unidentified utilities for example gas pipes are found on site.
  29. Water table is found to be higher than expected or changes resulting in the need for dewatering.
  30. Work or design takes longer than expected leading to temporary construction easements expiring.
  31. Working at height and management of associated hazards leads to delays and increased cost.

Download this list of Construction Risks

PDF download - Download this List of Construction Risks (PDF)

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