The Sources of Dispute in Construction Projects in the Mpumalanga Province

Construction projects are frequently held in a complex and uncertain nature, alongside claims being unavoidable. Construction projects involve processes that are complex and dynamic which at most result in disputes between the stakeholders. The study investigated the sources of disputes in construction projects in the Mpumalanga Province. The data used in this paper were derived from both primary and secondary sources. The secondary data was collected via a detailed review of related literature. The primary data was collected through a survey questionnaire which was distributed to project participants. Out of the 90 questionnaires sent out, 80 were received back representing 89% response rate. Data received from the questionnaires were analysed using descriptive statistics procedures such as Ms Excel and SPSS software. Findings from the study revealed that payment delays, poor supervision financial incapable of contractors, change of scope, delay in work progress, poor workmanship, incomplete specification design errors, delay in providing information and extension of time were the main sources of construction disputes. Therefore, client should minimise changing scope to avoid cost overrun and extension of time which contribute to dispute. Respondent believed that dispute avoidance strategies such as stakeholders management, alliancing, lean construction and partnering will reduce dispute drastically. Hence, the industry is encouraged to embrace modern management concepts and to avoid the effects of construction disputes such as loss of production, delays and profitability.