By Engr. Temitope Runsewe, Managing Director, Dutum Company Limited
Most times, people think delays, cost overruns, or structural issues happen during construction.
But the truth is, many of those problems were already decided in the planning stage.
If the foundation of your planning is shaky, the project will reflect it no matter how skilled your team is.
The good news?
Most of these issues can be avoided with a few careful checks before work begins.
Here are 5 things you should always get right before any project starts:
- A Clear Scope: Know exactly what you’re building, why you’re building it, and what success looks like.
Vague scope equals endless changes. - A Realistic Budget: Don’t guess your numbers. Ensure your design and your finances match.
Most projects go off track because the money was never enough from day one. - The Right Contractor: Choose based on track record, not price. Anyone can write a proposal, but not everyone can deliver a project.
- Quality Drawings and Documentation: If your drawings are unclear, you’ll pay for the confusion later. Good designs save money, time, and stress.
- A Practical Timeline: You can’t rush construction. Factor in weather, material lead time, and approvals.
A steady plan gives you a stable project.
Get these five right, and you’ll solve half of your problems before they even show up.
As we close 2025, go back to your drawing board and fix the loose ends now so you don’t build stress in 2026.
Thank you.
Engr. Temitope Runsewe,
Managing Director, Dutum Company Limited
SOURCE: IN HOUSE
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