Construction industry problems: The views of UK construction directors

Following a detailed literature review, eighteen prevalent problems facing the UK construction industry are identified. The severity of these problems as opined by experienced UK construction company directors, obtained through a questionnaire survey, are subsequently presented. Findings reveal that the two severest issues are considered to be the poor image and reputation of the industry, allied with a preponderance of 'cowboy builders'. Design changes are ranked third, followed by late payments, time restraints and reliance on competitive tendering procedures. In response to these views it is recommended that the industry's priority should be towards abolishing unscrupulous firms in the domestic repair, maintenance and improvement sector, thus leading towards the development of a more professional image. This should be combined with an attempt by all construction participants to eradicate the existing adversarial nature of the industry. A long-term strategic plan is needed if such generic industry-wide problems are to be addressed effectively in the new millennium.