Challenges faced by sub-contractors in managing disaster-related claims in Sri Lankan construction industry

Abstract

The increased frequency and intensity of disasters in Sri Lanka has significantly affected the sub-contractors in Sri Lankan construction industry especially during managing disaster related claims due to their inferior contractual position and limited resources. The past research has not comprehensively investigated the difficulties faced by sub-contractors in managing disaster related claims. Therefore, this research is aimed to investigate the key challenges faced by sub-contractors in managing disaster-related claims in the Sri Lankan construction industry in order to provide best practices to minimise the difficulties in managing such claims in future. This research followed qualitative research approach, and the data collection was done using semi-structured interviews with 20 experts selected through snowball sampling. The collected data were analysed through manual and code-based content analysis using NVivo software. The findings revealed that the sub-contractors experience numerous challenges due to inadequate documentation, limited financial and human resources, difficulties in evaluating claims, problematic relationships with main contractors, legal issues, and limited knowledge about claim procedures. Finally, the research proposed best practices such as structured claim documentation procedures, initial disaster planning methods, training programmes, improved contractual clarity on force majeure events, collaborative relationship with stakeholders, and use of digital tools, to manage the disaster related claims.