One of the main contributors to the waste generated in the Malaysian construction industry is housing projects. The main issues in this area are the lack of concern on the causes and contributory factors of waste generated. The objective of this study is to explore the causes and contributory factors that cause waste to be generated according to the material activity for the major waste generated in the housing construction sites. The identification of the waste causes by the material is significant as waste source detection. The methodology used in this study is site observations and interviews with the site personnel. The study found the similarity in term of the two major contributors; the management and the workers. From the study, the factors that cause waste to be generated are highlighted and the waste site checklist according to the material can be developed as a guideline for the site personnel and site management.