Contributions of the Construction Project Team to Cost Overruns: The Contractors' Perspective

A project is adjudged successful if it is completed on time, within the budgeted cost, and meets client's expectations. However, there is the global issue of construction cost and time overruns, which have contributed to poor project performance. Contractors always have been seen as the culprits in this regard, whereas the contractor is not solely involved in construction projects. There are other project team members who determine the path of the project success. This study assesses the causes of cost overruns, viewing this from the contractor's assessment of the contribution of the project team members. The study was conducted using questionnaire surveys in which 100 questionnaires were distributed to contractors using purposive sampling; data were analyzed by the use of descriptive statistics. The results show that lack of adequate precontract planning and project team coordination are the most significant factors among construction professionals leading to cost overruns. The study made recommendations, which are of benefit to the client, project team members, and contractors.