Major setbacks during construction after design..

In construction, things can happen whether you plan them or not! There could be issues during and pre-build that can cause delays in your project. Unexpected problems can come up at any point in time, however, there are some things to look out for that can cause major setbacks, and here’s a few of them:

Why Clear Planning and Strong Project Management Are Critical Before Construction Begins

Starting a construction project is an exciting milestone, whether it’s a residential renovation or a commercial build. But too often, projects get delayed, costs balloon, and frustrations mount — not because of poor craftsmanship, but because of poor planning and weak project management.

Here are three common mistakes that can derail a construction project before it even gets off the ground, and why avoiding them is critical to success.

1. Lack of Finalized Design Before Demolition

One of the most common and costly mistakes we see in construction projects is beginning demolition or construction without a fully completed and approved design. Simply put: if you don’t have a clear, finalized plan, it’s impossible to carry out the construction process efficiently.

Jumping into demo without making key decisions about layout, finishes, materials, or systems (like plumbing and electrical) opens the door to confusion, change orders, and scheduling chaos. Every time a decision is made late or revised mid-build, the project timeline is at risk—and so is the budget.

Solution: Take the time to finalize the design before the first wall comes down. Work closely with your architect, designer, and contractor to ensure every element of the project is planned out, from structural details to paint colors.

2. Making On-the-Fly Changes During Construction

It’s natural to want to tweak things as you see them come to life—but construction isn’t the time for experimentation. Making spontaneous decisions during walkthroughs—especially changes that deviate from approved plans and renderings—can cause major disruptions.

These seemingly minor adjustments can create a ripple effect: subcontractors must pause and wait for new instructions, materials may need to be reordered, and permit approvals might be affected. Ultimately, these impromptu changes often lead to price increases and extended timelines.

Solution: Trust the design process. If you’ve reviewed and signed off on renderings, understand that they represent the agreed-upon vision. If you do feel strongly about a change, consult with your contractor first to evaluate its true impact on the schedule and budget.

3. Ineffective Project Management

A contractor is only as strong as their project manager. When project management is weak or disorganized, the entire job suffers. Without someone who can efficiently coordinate subcontractors, manage schedules, and hold teams accountable, even the most well-planned project can fall apart.

Poor project management can lead to miscommunication, unchecked delays, incomplete checklists, and stalled progress. A good project manager doesn't just keep the trains running on time—they anticipate problems before they occur, ensuring that materials are ordered promptly and that teams are working in sync.

Solution: Hire a contractor with a proven track record and ask specific questions about their project management approach. What systems do they use? How do they communicate with clients and subcontractors? A strong, proactive project manager can make the difference between a successful build and a stressful one.

Final Thoughts

Construction projects are complex, but they don’t have to be chaotic. With proper planning, clear communication, and skilled project management, your vision can be realized on time and on budget. Avoid the common pitfalls by making key decisions early, committing to the design, and partnering with professionals who understand the importance of running a tight ship.

Need help planning your next project the right way? Let’s talk—our team is here to ensure your next build runs smoothly from concept to completion.