Common Mistakes That Delay Construction Project (And How to Avoid Them)
If you’re planning a construction project in Los Angeles be it a custom home, ADU, or commercial property you’ve likely heard the horror stories: busted budgets, months-long delays, and timelines that never seem to hold. But most of these delays aren’t caused by material shortages or bad weather, they were preventable from the start.
At AVICA Construction & Development, a trusted design-build contractor in Los Angeles, we’ve worked alongside homeowners and developers to help them steer clear of common pitfalls. Here are three of the most frequent causes of construction delays and how to proactively avoid them.
1. Poor Planning from the Start
When a construction project launches without a detailed preconstruction strategy or complete design scope, the consequences pile up quickly, change orders, budget overruns, and delays in city approvals.
Real Example:
One client came to us after their previous contractor missed LA’s hillside grading regulations. That single oversight forced a full redesign and added three months to the timeline.
How You Can Avoid It:
Before breaking ground, invest time in planning. Collaborate with a team that understands how to coordinate construction plans with architects, engineers, and city departments early. At AVICA, we guide you through a comprehensive preconstruction process so your design is sound, your permits are ready, and your construction project budget stays intact.
2. Communication Breakdowns Between Teams
Lack of clear communication between you, your Los Angeles contractors, and the trades can result in misaligned drawings, on-site confusion, and expensive rework stalling your construction project.
Real Example:
On a Los Angeles multifamily construction project, we were brought in after a plumbing layout didn’t match the approved plans due to outdated drawings being circulated. The result? Refiled permits and weeks of delays.
How You Can Avoid It:
Establish a centralized communication system from day one. Whether it’s through project management software or scheduled team check-ins, keeping everyone on the same page is critical. With AVICA, we give you full access to a collaborative platform so you can track progress, view updated plans, and keep the entire construction project team aligned in real time.
3. Underestimating Permitting Timelines
Permits are rarely quick and when they’re ignored or rushed, your construction project risks penalties or stop-work orders.
Real Example:
A homeowner started demolition before receiving permit approvals. The city halted the job with a stop-work order, leading to a 90-day delay and steep fines.
How You Can Avoid Permitting Delays:
Make permitting part of your construction project schedule, not an afterthought. A knowledgeable team will help you map out realistic approval timelines, handle submittals, and maintain communication with city officials. AVICA supports you through every permit checkpoint so your construction project stays compliant and on track.
Build Smart - Build with Confidence.
A construction project doesn’t have to be chaotic. When you’re guided by a team that values preparation, communication, and strategy, you take control of your outcome from day one with detailed plans that keep you aligned.
Looking for trusted Los Angeles contractors to lead your ADU, custom home, or commercial construction project?
We’re ready when you are.
Book a free consultation: Click here to request an estimate and start building smarter with AVICA Construction.
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