Abstract:
A construction project is commonly acknowledged as a successful project when the aim of the project is
achieved in terms of predetermined objectives of completing the project on time, within budget and to the required
quality standard. Delay in the completion of a construction project can be a major problem for contractors,
consultants as well as for clients. These delays lead to costly disputes and adverse relationships amongst project
participants. Projects can be delayed due to large number of reasons. The reasons are related to various types of
uncertainties associated with activities during the construction process or during the planning and design stages.
Project delays in general are due to delays caused by the client, delays caused by the contractors/consultants and
delays due to equipment/materials & environmental factors. The objective of this research was to identify the major
causes of construction project delays in the construction industries in Sri Lanka and find out how planning and
mitigation methods would minimize their impacts. This study was carried out through questionnaire surveys and
interviews conducted within the construction industry professionals in Sri Lanka. It is expected that this study
would identify project planning deficiencies in the construction industry and propose recommendations to rectify
identified issues and thereby reduce project delays which would contribute towards sustainable construction.
