Understanding the True Cost of Building a House.
While the rising cost of building materials is a significant factor, it is not the only reason why building a house can be prohibitively expensive. Several hidden costs arise from unethical practices and inefficiencies at various stages of the construction process. Here's a breakdown:
Engineer Mismanagement.
Engineers can sometimes inflate project costs, skimming off substantial amounts ranging from 4 to 5 million Naira, depending on the project scale.
Carpenters might reduce the quantity of wood used, and pilfer binding wires and nails. This is often in addition to their agreed-upon wages, allowing them to earn extra money unethically.
Suppliers of key materials like granite often under-deliver on their loads. Similarly, those supplying cement might remove 50 to 100 bags per delivery. This shortfall extends to blocks and other materials, usually with the complicity of the engineers and site managers.
Plumbers and electricians frequently run their own schemes, misappropriating materials meant for the construction site. Tilers and painters might also steal electrical materials, further inflating costs.
Even ancillary staff, such as the women who bring food to the site, can be involved in these schemes, indicating a pervasive issue.
Trusted site managers often exploit their positions to make significant profits, potentially siphoning off 2 to 3 million Naira from the project.
Iron and steel, which are crucial and expensive materials, are also targets for theft, contributing to the overall cost.
By addressing these issues and implementing stringent monitoring and management practices, the true cost of building a house can be significantly reduced. Transparent oversight and accountability are essential to minimize theft and wastage, thereby making construction more affordable. Written by Daniel Okonkwo for Profile International Human Rights Adovcate
Effective monitoring of your building project is crucial. Ensure that you oversee every aspect of the construction process to mitigate these hidden costs and ensure a fair and efficient build.
Written by Daniel Okonkwo for Profile International Human Rights Advocate.
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