Extreme weather accounts for more than 70% of construction delays 

A recent study reveals that over 70% of construction managers in the UK have faced significant weather-related project delays in the past year, highlighting the serious impact of extreme weather on the industry. 

The findings form part of a report by energy solutions specialist, Aggreko which examines the impact of extreme weather on the construction sector across Europe. 

The report, based on a survey of 850 construction managers from the UK, Ireland, France, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg, Norway, and Sweden, highlights the problems around weather-related risks when it comes to construction sites. 

Overall, there was little difference between extreme heat, freezing temperatures, excessive rainfall and flooding, and sleet and snow, with 22% of construction managers identifying these as the biggest threats to their sites. 

Construction managers reported that adverse weather conditions were not only causing damage to materials and equipment, but the weather was also posing a challenge to employee welfare on site. 

These risks are not only operational but also commercial, with 39% of UK construction managers indicating that major weather-related delays had resulted in financial penalties on projects. 

Owen Lauder, Construction Lead at Previsico said: “Contractors and consultants need to make sure they have a good early warning system, driven by reliable, real-time data, to ensure they can manage any extreme weather events that happen on site. The goal of construction businesses is to deliver the program of works within budget, whilst complying to strict regulations and consents during this period, so it's crucial to have the best tools and knowledge available. This will help minimise delays and provide an early advantage in anticipating any potential problems." 

Read the full report here