Building Defects Assessment Framework for Malaysian Construction Projects

Abstract

AbstractThe building industries of Malaysia have grown steadily, supported by ongoing infrastructure projects. However, some of the construction projects were poorly built in terms of quality. Building defects are not new in the Malaysian construction industry, and as a developed country that grows rapidly, therefore, this problem cannot be ignored, because it will generate a negative image toward the future construction industry. This study aimed to determine the most common types of defects that occurred in buildings, and the contributing factors to building defects in the construction project are also determined. In addition, the effects and solutions of building defects in the construction industry are examined. By identifying the objectives, the building defects framework can be implemented and practiced more effectively. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 23 and the relative importance index. The result shows that cracks were produced. The highest-ranked type of building defects occurred with the relative importance index value of 77.3%, and poor workmanship is the most common factor that contributed to building defects in the construction industry with the relative importance index value of 81.3%. These defects also affect the appearance and safety of the building, which brings discomfort and dissatisfaction to the occupants living in the building. Therefore, the solutions are to overcome the defects with regular monitoring and supervision of workmanship, provide the workers with proper training, and ensure the usage of materials, especially the quality.KeywordsConstruction defectsAssessment frameworkConstruction projects