BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING AND RENOVATION PROJECTS IN KADUNA, NIGERIA

Abstract

New construction features the most in studies on the advancement in digital technologies in contrast to existing buildings. The application of BIM for renovation projects is underdeveloped both in practice and in studies. This study assesses the level of awareness of Building Information Modeling (BIM) for renovation projects among building contracting firms in Kaduna, Nigeria to promote sustainable construction. A survey questionnaire focused on 33 contracting firms in Kaduna metropolis using purposive sampling. With a return rate of 75.8%, the level of BIM awareness was fair at 44%. Construction planning and constructability analysis were the dominant BIM application areas for renovation. Others include clash detection, quantity take-off and cost estimation. The main drivers include the availability of BIM software and clients’ interest in the use of BIM. Main barriers are unclear liabilities among parties, training costs and lack of BIM expertise. Although the study found evidence of BIM use for renovation projects within the study area, it, therefore, recommends upskilling of personnel through BIM proficiency courses supported by relevant professional bodies. Future research could examine ways to increase clients’ awareness of BIM for renovation projects to promote sustainable construction.