Reflections on the risk and uncertainty of rework in construction

Rework can be a problem in construction projects. While research has contributed to the accumulation of knowledge about rework, there remains limited understanding about its causal mechanisms. The result is an inability to manage and control the risks and uncertainties that surround rework causation in construction projects. This paper suggests that possessing knowledge and having an understanding of rework causation and its context is pivotal for anticipating its likely occurrence and putting in place risk mitigation strategies. The paper concludes by suggesting there is a need to develop a knowledge engineering system to capture rework in projects so that artificial intelligence can be used to support uncertainty management.