Scope creep is a common problem for many construction projects. Scope creep refers to changes to a construction project’s original plans. Construction projects are often altered; however, scope creep often leads to delays, budget adjustments and approval issues.
It is important to understand how scope creep happens in construction, the difficulties it creates and how to handle the issue. Here is what you should know:
How does scope creep happen?
An owner, contractor or project manager may be asked to make a minor change to a construction project. For example, a project manager may be asked to make minor changes to a home’s floor plan. Or, a contractor may be asked to add landscaping to a house addition. These additions, design changes or material upgrades may be unavoidable. However, gradual changes to a project can significantly impact labor and material costs and scheduling issues — and that can ultimately lead to conflicts.
What are the difficulties of scope creep?
Scope creep is often challenging for construction projects because it can lead to complex and long-term issues. For example, new additions to a construction project can increase the costs for labor, materials, equipment and subcontractors. The gradual additions of changes can quickly balloon to enormous costs.
Design changes and additional work can lead to scheduling delays. Even small changes made later in a project often require contractors and project managers to rework plans, include new orders and revise permits. Scope creep often causes construction projects to be completed much later than the expected completion date.
How is scope creep handled?
Defining the goals of a construction project early is often the best way to avoid scope creep. If scope creep happens, it is important to find an effective solution to avoid serious issues. Professional legal guidance can help address scope creep and contract issues.