Greener Journal of Environment Management and Public Safety

ISSN: 2354-2276

Vol. 14(1), pp. 31-40,  2026

Copyright ©2026, Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International.

https://gjournals.org/GJEMPS

DOI: https://doi.org/10.15580/gjemps.2026.1.080626130

 

 

 

 

Time and Cost Management Challenges in Private Residential Construction Projects Delivery in Owerri, Imo State

 

Victor-Wokem, Chinyere Gift; Akujuru, Victor A.; Ihuah Paulinus W.; Deeyah, Christopher L.

 

Department of Estate Management, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt.

 

 

ABSTRACT

Effective time and cost management is essential for the successful delivery of construction projects; however, private residential projects in Nigeria frequently encounter delays and cost overruns. This research investigates the factors influencing time and cost management and identifies strategies to enhance project delivery in private residential construction projects in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was employed. The study population consisted of 300 private residential project owners and developers, selected through simple random sampling from Owerri Municipal, Owerri North, and Owerri West. Data collection utilized a structured questionnaire, validated by experts, which achieved a Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient of 0.83. Descriptive statistics, including mean and the Relative Importance Index (RII), were applied for data analysis. The results indicate that poor project planning and scheduling (Mean = 4.07; RII = 0.81), delays in material procurement (Mean = 3.94; RII = 0.79), and delayed payments to contractors and suppliers (Mean = 3.83; RII = 0.77) are the primary factors affecting time management. Similarly, inflation in material prices (Mean = 4.10; RII = 0.82), inaccurate cost estimation and budgeting (Mean = 4.04; RII = 0.81), and exchange rate fluctuations (Mean = 3.82; RII = 0.76) are the most significant factors influencing cost management. The study further demonstrates that proper project planning and scheduling, regular project monitoring and supervision, and accurate cost estimation are the most effective strategies for improving time and cost management in residential construction projects. It is concluded that strengthening project planning, financial management, procurement practices, and project monitoring is vital for enhancing project delivery performance. The adoption of comprehensive planning and scheduling, realistic cost estimation, effective project supervision, and modern project management practices is recommended to minimize delays and cost overruns in residential construction projects.

ARTICLE’S INFO

 

Article No.: 080626130

Type: Research

Full Text: PDF, PHP, HTML, EPUB, MP3

DOI: 10.15580/gjemps.2026.1.080626130

 

Accepted:  08/08/2026

Published: 16/08/2026

 

Keywords: Time management, cost management, residential construction projects, project delivery.

 

*Corresponding Author

 

Deeyah, Christopher L.

 

E-mail: christopher.deeyah2@ust.edu.ng

 

Article’s QR code

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

The construction industry serves as a key driver of economic growth and national development by facilitating infrastructure provision, housing delivery, employment generation, and overall economic productivity. In Nigeria, this sector is instrumental in advancing urbanization and socio-economic progress. Nevertheless, its impact is frequently limited by persistent project delays and cost overruns, which diminish profitability, compromise project quality, deter investment, and erode public confidence in construction activities (Olawale & Sun, 2010). These issues often lead to project abandonment, resource wastage, contractual disputes, and inefficient allocation of limited financial resources.

Effective management of project time and cost is essential for the successful delivery of construction projects, as these are fundamental indicators of project performance. The inherent complexity of construction projects arises from the involvement of multiple stakeholders, technical uncertainties, evolving client requirements, and fluctuating economic conditions. As a result, project managers must integrate the management of scope, time, cost, and quality to achieve project objectives. Time management encompasses the planning, scheduling, monitoring, and control of project activities to ensure completion within the approved timeframe (Kerzner, 2013). Cost management involves estimating, budgeting, financing, monitoring, and controlling project expenditures throughout the project lifecycle to ensure completion within the approved budget (Memon et al., 2012). Ineffective management of these interrelated dimensions frequently results in schedule delays, budget overruns, diminished client satisfaction, and suboptimal project outcomes (Project Management Institute, 2000).

Despite advancements in project management practices and technologies, construction projects in many developing countries continue to face significant challenges related to time and cost management. These difficulties are often linked to inadequate project planning and scheduling, inaccurate cost estimation, fluctuating material prices, funding interruptions, contractor inefficiency, design modifications, ineffective communication among stakeholders, and weak project monitoring systems. Collectively, these factors undermine project delivery performance and restrict the construction industry's ability to contribute effectively to sustainable development.

These challenges are particularly pronounced in Owerri, the capital of Imo State, which has experienced rapid urbanization and increased investment in residential development over the past decade. The heightened demand for housing has encouraged substantial private-sector involvement in residential construction. Nevertheless, numerous residential projects continue to face extended completion periods, rising construction costs, and, in some cases, abandonment before completion. Evidence indicates that these outcomes result from inadequate planning and scheduling, escalating material costs, insufficient project supervision, contractor inefficiency, funding limitations, and frequent design changes during project execution (Ikechukwu et al., 2017). Additionally, weak enforcement of contractual obligations and limited adoption of modern project management tools further constrain effective project delivery in the area.

While many studies have explored time and cost management in construction projects across Nigeria and other developing countries, few have specifically addressed the challenges faced by private residential construction projects in Owerri, Imo State. Considering the growing private investment in residential housing and the ongoing prevalence of project delays and cost overruns, empirical research is needed to identify the factors contributing to these challenges and to assess their implications for project delivery performance.

This study aims to address this knowledge gap by investigating the challenges of time and cost management in the delivery of private residential construction projects in Owerri, Imo State. Specifically, the study seeks to:

 

i.      Identify the primary factors influencing time management in private residential construction projects in Owerri.

ii.      Examine the determinants of cost management in private residential construction projects.

iii.     Propose strategies to enhance time and cost management in residential construction projects.

 

The findings are anticipated to offer valuable insights for project managers, contractors, developers, policymakers, and other stakeholders in formulating strategies that improve project efficiency, increase stakeholder satisfaction, and advance sustainable construction practices within the study area.

 

               

2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW

 

2.1       Overview of Residential Construction Projects

 

Residential construction projects are building activities aimed at providing housing, including single-family homes, duplexes, apartments, and estates. These projects are typically initiated by private individuals or developers and are shaped by factors such as market demand, affordability, and urban growth patterns (Oladapo, 2020). In contrast to public construction projects, private residential developments are more vulnerable to client-driven modifications, financial constraints, and informal procurement practices, all of which can negatively impact project performance.

In Nigeria, especially in urban centers such as Owerri, residential construction has experienced rapid growth as a result of popularizing heightened demand for housing. Despite this expansion, significant challenges persist in the planning, execution, and monitoring of project activities, leading to delays and cost overruns.

 

2.2       Time Management in Construction Projects

 

Time management in construction encompasses the systematic planning, scheduling, and monitoring of project activities to ensure timely completion. It includes defining project tasks, sequencing activities, allocating resources, and tracking progress against a predetermined schedule (Kerzner, 2025). Ahmad et al. (2012) define time management as the ability to prioritize, schedule, and execute tasks effectively to achieve project goals within the allocated time frame. Shehu (2021) emphasizes that time management involves managing human behavior and operational activities in relation to time by adhering to planned schedules and established milestones to ensure project success. Thus, time management in construction constitutes a decision-making process that integrates optimization models to balance time and cost, ensuring project completion at minimal expense without compromising quality. Adetola (2021) highlights the strategic application of scheduling techniques, such as the Critical Path Method (CPM) and Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT), to monitor progress, identify potential delays, and maintain control over project timelines.

Time is a critical performance indicator in construction management, alongside cost and quality. Olawale and Sun (2010) assert that effective time management enables contractors, clients, and project managers to coordinate resources efficiently, reduce idle time, and mitigate delays. Effective time management requires developing and implementing a detailed schedule that specifies project activities, durations, dependencies, and milestones. Poor time management in construction is often due to inadequate planning, delayed payments, design alterations, and supply chain disruptions. Consequently, effective time management is essential to enhance productivity, reduce rework, and ensure projects are delivered on time.

Empirical evidence underscores the importance of time management as a determinant of project success. For example, Oluwajana et al. (2021) conducted a study in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria to identify factors affecting time and cost performance in construction projects. The study found that time overruns were primarily caused by delayed payments, material shortages, and a lack of skilled labor. The authors concluded that effective planning and scheduling are essential for mitigating these delays.

 

2.3       Cost Management in Construction Projects

 

Cost management encompasses the process for estimating, allocating, and controlling project costs, ensuring completion within approved budgets. These processes include cost estimation, budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting throughout the project lifecycle (PMI, 2000). Lock (2017) describes cost management as the procedures required to deliver a project within its estimated financial plan while achieving the desired scope and quality standards. Memon (2012) characterizes cost management as a coordinated process involving cost estimation, budgeting, and control to maintain financial discipline throughout the project life cycle. It is a continuous process of forecasting, monitoring, and evaluating expenditures to ensure that project costs remain aligned with planned objectives.

Cost management is a critical factor in the success of construction projects, as it ensures efficient utilization of financial resources and prevents unforeseen expenses that may threaten project completion. Inadequate cost management often leads to cost overruns, reduced profitability, and project abandonment. Common causes include inaccurate cost estimation, variation orders, insufficient financial planning, and ineffective procurement systems (Aibinu & Jagboro, 2002). Effective cost management enables contractors and clients to maintain transparency, accountability, and financial predictability throughout the project life cycle.

Cost management is essential in construction, as it directly affects project performance, financial viability, and client satisfaction. By ensuring projects are completed within budget, cost management minimizes financial risks for both contractors and clients. According to Kerzner (2013), effective cost management establishes a financial baseline for measuring actual performance and facilitates early identification of potential cost overruns.

 

2.4       Factors Responsible for Time Overruns in Residential Construction Projects

 

Time overruns in residential construction projects occur when completion exceeds the planned schedule, resulting in increased costs, reduced productivity, and diminished stakeholder satisfaction (Olawale & Sun, 2010). The literature identifies several interrelated managerial, financial, technical, and external factors contributing to these delays. Notable causes include inadequate project planning and scheduling, insufficient site supervision, poor coordination among project participants, and ineffective communication between clients, contractors, consultants, and suppliers. These issues disrupt project workflows and impede timely decision-making (Aibinu & Jagboro, 2002; Kerzner, 2025). Financial challenges, such as delayed client payments, poor cash flow, inflation, and fluctuating material prices, further exacerbate schedule slippage by hindering the timely procurement of resources and execution of project activities (Oseghale et al., 2015). Technical factors, including frequent client-initiated design changes, variation orders, rework, shortages of skilled labour, and delays in material procurement, also extend project durations by interrupting planned construction sequences (Ameh & Osegbo, 2011). Additionally, external factors such as adverse weather conditions, political instability, and regulatory delays negatively impact project schedules, despite being largely outside the control of project managers (Okereke & Igwe, 2020). These findings indicate that time overruns result from the interaction of management, financial, technical, and environmental challenges, underscoring the importance of effective planning, robust financial management, efficient stakeholder coordination, and proactive risk management to ensure timely project delivery (Odeyinka & Yusif, 2021).

 

2.5       Challenges of Cost Management in Residential Projects

 

Cost management in residential construction projects faces a range of technical, financial, managerial, and economic challenges that impede achieving project delivery within approved budgets. Inaccurate cost estimation and budgeting during the planning stage represent a primary challenge, often resulting in budget overruns and financial constraints during project execution (Obi et al., 2017). Persistent fluctuations in the prices of construction materials, such as cement, steel reinforcement, and roofing materials, further complicate cost control, as these materials constitute a significant share of total construction expenditure (Ajayi et al., 2024). Additionally, inadequate project planning and scheduling can lead to inefficient resource allocation, construction delays, material wastage, and rework, all of which contribute to escalating costs.

Additional significant challenges encompass inflation, exchange rate volatility, insufficient financial planning and cost control, frequent variation orders, unrealistic contract durations, limited managerial competence, ineffective communication among project stakeholders, suboptimal site management, and mismanagement of project funds. Collectively, these factors increase construction costs, reduce housing affordability, and impede the timely and cost-effective delivery of residential projects (Aibinu & Jagboro, 2021).

 

2.6       Empirical Review

 

Most empirical research has focused on what affects project delivery, especially time, cost, quality, and stakeholder satisfaction. Studies show that project performance depends on a mix of managerial, financial, technical, institutional, and environmental factors. Aibinu and Jagboro (2002) examined delays in Nigerian construction projects and found that poor planning, contractor inefficiency, and financial constraints were the main causes of time overruns. Their study showed that delays not only lengthen projects but also raise costs and lower client satisfaction, highlighting the close link between time and cost performance.

 

Frimpong et al. (2003) studied construction projects in Ghana and found that delayed payments, material shortages, poor contractor management, and weak project supervision were the main reasons for schedule overruns. They stressed the importance of sound financial management, adequate resources, and ongoing project monitoring to deliver projects on time. Chan and Chan (2004) developed a framework for assessing construction project success that goes beyond meeting time and cost goals. They said project performance should also include quality of work, safety, how well the project functions, and client satisfaction. Their study showed that the traditional "iron triangle" only partly measures project success.

 

Assaf and Al-Hejji (2006) studied construction delays in Saudi Arabia and found that frequent design changes, slow decision-making, delayed approvals, and poor coordination among stakeholders were major causes of schedule overruns. They emphasized that good communication and quick decisions are key to reducing delays and improving project performance. Omoregie and Radford (2006) examined the Nigerian construction industry and found that procurement delays, poor scheduling, poor communication, changing material prices, and funding problems were major causes of time and cost overruns. They also noted that weak institutions and regulations make these problems worse by limiting good project management and control.

 

Toor and Ogunlana (2008) studied construction project performance in developing countries and found that weak governance, corruption, poor stakeholder management, and not enough project monitoring hurt project delivery. They showed that strong institutions and effective management are crucial for successful projects. Olawale and Sun (2010) examined the causes of construction cost overruns and found that inflation, design changes, poor risk management, and weak cost controls were the main drivers of rising costs. They recommended active cost monitoring and strong risk management to improve financial performance during the project.

 

Ofori (2012) reviewed construction project delivery in Nigeria and found that poor planning, insufficient technical skills, weak regulation, and poor project management led to delays, cost overruns, and quality issues. The study suggested building professional skills and improving oversight to boost project performance. Memon et al. (2012) examined why construction costs exceed budget and found that change orders, inaccurate cost estimates, late payments, and poor contract management were key reasons. They stressed that good planning and strong contract management are needed to keep projects within budget.

 

Oladinrin et al. (2012) examined project delivery in Nigeria and found that poor communication, weak coordination, and poor contract management negatively affected project outcomes. They concluded that better collaboration and clear communication are essential for successful projects. 

Doloi (2013) studied construction project performance and found that poor cost planning, weak stakeholder management, and bad risk assessment were main reasons for cost overruns. The study argued that rising costs usually come from several management and technical problems working together, showing how complex construction project management can be.

 

Aziz and Hafez (2013) looked at ways to imto improvection project performance and showed that using modern tapplying Information Modelling (BIM), Earned Value Management (EVM), and advanced scheduling helps make planning, monitoring, and decision-making more accurate. Their findings highlight the growing importance of digital technologies in construction projects. Overall, research shows that the main factors affecting construction project performance are similar across different regions. Studies often point to poor planning, contractor inefficiency, weak stakeholder coordination, financial problems, procurement delays, material shortages, poor communication, weak institutions, wrong cost estimates, design changes, and poor project monitoring as the main reasons for delays, cost overruns, and poor results. On the other hand, using good planning methods, strong financial and risk management, clear procurement, strong governance, better collaboration, and modern digital tools can greatly improve project delivery. These findings show that successful projects depend on managing time, cost, quality, and stakeholder needs together throughout the project.

 

 

3.0       METHODOLOGY

 

A descriptive survey research design was employed to examine the challenges associated with time and cost management in private residential construction projects in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. The study population consisted of 300 private residential project owners and developers selected from five major streets across the three local government areas: Owerri Municipal, Owerri North, and Owerri West. A simple random sampling technique was utilized to ensure equal participation among respondents. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire, the Time and Cost Management in Construction Projects Questionnaire (TCMCPQ). This instrument comprised 10 items measured on a five-point Likert scale, ranging from Strongly Disagree (1) to Strongly Agree (5). Content validity was ensured through expert review by the Department of Estate Management. Internal consistency was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.83, indicating satisfactory reliability. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, specifically mean and standard deviation, to address the study objectives. A criterion mean of 3.00 served as the decision threshold; scores of 3.00 or higher indicated agreement and scores below 3.00 indicated disagreement.

 

 

4.0       RESULTS AND DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS

 

4.1       Factors Affecting Time Management in Private Residential Construction Projects in Owerri, Imo State

 

Table 1 presents respondents' perceptions of the factors affecting time management in private residential construction projects in Owerri, Imo State. The analysis is based on mean scores and the Relative Importance Index (RII), using a criterion mean of 3.00. Mean values of 3.00 or above reflect consensus that a factor significantly impacts time management.

 

 

Table 1: Factors Affecting Time Management in Private Residential Construction Projects in Owerri

Time Management Factors

SA

A

U

D

SD

Sum

Mean

RII

Rank

Decision

Poor project planning and scheduling

137

100

28

18

17

300

4.07

0.81

1st

Agree

Delay in material procurement

126

91

41

22

20

300

3.94

0.79

2nd

Agree

Delays in payment to contractors and suppliers

117

88

45

27

23

300

3.83

0.77

3rd

Agree

Poor supervision and site management

111

80

43

36

30

300

3.69

0.74

4th

Agree

Client-induced design changes

101

90

38

40

31

300

3.63

0.73

5th

Agree

Shortage of skilled construction personnel

102

74

36

47

40

300

3.49

0.70

6th

Agree

Source: Field Survey, 2025

Criterion Mean = 3.00

 

Decision Rule: Mean ≥ 3.00 = Agree; Mean < 3.00 = Disagree.

 

 

The results show that all six factors have a significant impact on time management in private residential construction projects in Owerri, as each had a mean score above 3.00. This means most respondents agreed these factors cause project delays and affect timely completion. Poor project planning and scheduling was the most important factor, with the highest mean score of 4.07 and an RII of 0.81. This suggests that not planning well and not scheduling effectively are the main reasons projects are delayed. Poor planning can lead to unrealistic timelines, inefficient use of resources, and poor coordination, which often causes schedules to slip. The next most important factor was delays in getting materials, with a mean score of 3.94 (RII = 0.79). Respondents said that when materials arrive late, work is disrupted, which can stop progress and push back completion dates. Delays in paying contractors and suppliers came third, with a mean score of 3.83 and an RII of 0.77. This shows that when cash flow is irregular and payments are late, contractors struggle to buy materials, pay workers, and keep work going, which also leads to delays.

Poor supervision and site management was the fourth most important factor, with a mean score of 3.69 (RII = 0.74). This means that when supervision is weak and site operations are not well coordinated, productivity drops and it becomes harder to stick to the project schedule. The fifth factor was changes to the design requested by clients, with a mean score of 3.63 and an RII of 0.73. Frequent design changes during construction interrupt planned work, require redoing tasks, and add time to the project. The last factor was a shortage of skilled construction workers, with a mean score of 3.49 and an RII of 0.70. While this was the least significant, respondents still agreed that not having enough skilled workers lowers efficiency, productivity, and can delay project completion.

The study found that poor project planning and scheduling had the biggest impact on time management in private residential construction projects in Owerri. This was followed by delays in getting materials, late payments to contractors and suppliers, poor supervision and site management, design changes requested by clients, and a shortage of skilled workers. These results show that poor planning and coordination are still the main reasons for project delays. Poor planning often leads to unrealistic schedules, inefficient use of resources, and poor coordination, which can make projects take longer to finish. These findings are consistent with those of Aibinu and Jagboro (2002), who found that poor planning, contractor inefficiency, and financial problems are major causes of construction delays in Nigeria. The results also support Frimpong et al. (2003), who reported that material shortages, late payments, poor contractor management, and weak supervision contribute to schedule overruns. Similarly, the study agrees with Assaf and Al-Hejji (2006), and Omoregie and Radford (2006), who found that poor scheduling, procurement delays, funding issues, and poor site management are key reasons for time overruns in construction projects.

 

4.2       Factors Influencing Cost Management in Residential Construction Projects

 

Table 2 presents respondents' perceptions of factors influencing cost management in residential construction projects in Owerri, Imo State. The analysis employs mean scores and the Relative Importance Index (RII), using a criterion mean of 3.00. Mean scores of 3.00 or above reflect consensus among respondents that the identified factors significantly impact project cost management.

 

 

 

Table 2: Factors Influencing Cost Management in Residential Construction Projects

Cost Management Factors

SA

A

U

D

SD

Total

Mean

RII

Rank

Decision

Inflation in material prices

142

94

32

17

15

300

4.10

0.82

1st

Agree

Inaccurate cost estimation and budgeting

140

90

30

21

19

300

4.04

0.81

2nd

Agree

Exchange rate fluctuations

122

81

44

27

26

300

3.82

0.76

3rd

Agree

Variation orders

118

84

36

37

25

300

3.78

0.76

4th

Agree

Poor management of project funds

116

77

45

37

25

300

3.74

0.75

5th

Agree

Fluctuation in construction material prices

114

75

40

38

33

300

3.66

0.73

6th

Agree

Material wastage and rework

100

89

36

40

35

300

3.60

0.72

7th

Agree

Ineffective communication among stakeholders

107

75

38

42

38

300

3.57

0.71

8th

Agree

Design changes during project execution

102

74

36

47

41

300

3.50

0.70

9th

Agree

Source: Field Survey, 2025

Criterion Mean = 3.00

 

Decision Rule: Mean ≥ 3.00 = Agree; Mean < 3.00 = Disagree.

 

 

Table 2 shows that all the factors identified had mean scores above the criterion mean of 3.00. This means respondents agreed these factors have a strong impact on cost management in residential construction projects. Inflation in material prices ranked highest, with a mean score of 4.10 and an RII of 0.82, making it the most significant factor. Inaccurate cost estimation and budgeting came next (Mean = 4.04, RII = 0.81), highlighting the impact of poor budgeting on cost overruns. Exchange rate fluctuations (Mean = 3.82, RII = 0.76) and variation orders (Mean = 3.78, RII = 0.76) were third and fourth, while poor management of project funds (Mean = 3.74, RII = 0.75) was fifth. Other important factors included changes in construction material prices (Mean = 3.66, RII = 0.73), material wastage and rework (Mean = 3.60, RII = 0.72), ineffective communication among stakeholders (Mean = 3.57, RII = 0.71), and design changes during project execution (Mean = 3.50, RII = 0.70). Although design changes ranked last, they were still seen as significant.

The study found that inflation in material prices had the biggest impact on cost management. Other important factors were inaccurate cost estimation and budgeting, exchange rate changes, variation orders, poor management of project funds, changes in material prices, material wastage and rework, poor communication among stakeholders, and design changes during the project. These results show that both economic factors and project management practices play a big role in construction cost performance. The findings are similar to those of Olawale and Sun (2010), who found that inflation, design changes, poor risk management, and weak cost control often cause cost overruns. They also agree with Flyvbjerg et al. (2003), who reported that inaccurate cost estimates often lead to budget overruns. The results are also in line with Memon et al. (2012), who pointed to variation orders, inaccurate estimates, and poor contract management as main reasons for cost increases. Finally, the findings agree with Doloi (2013) who stressed that poor financial management, procurement problems, and weak project controls can seriously harm cost performance in construction projects.

 

4.3       Strategies to Enhance Time and Cost Management in Residential Construction Projects

 

Table 3 summarizes respondents' perceptions regarding strategies for enhancing time and cost management in residential construction projects in Owerri, Imo State. The analysis utilized mean scores and the Relative Importance Index (RII), applying a criterion mean of 3.00. All identified strategies achieved mean scores above this benchmark, indicating consensus among respondents on their effectiveness in improving project time and cost performance.

 

Table 3: Strategies for Enhancing Time and Cost Management in Residential Construction Projects

Questionnaire Items

SA

A

U

D

SD

Total

Mean

RII

Decision

Proper project planning and scheduling improve time and cost management in residential construction projects.

143

88

33

20

16

300

4.07

0.81

Agree

Regular project monitoring and supervision enhance timely project completion and cost control.

137

82

46

19

16

300

4.02

0.80

Agree

Accurate cost estimation before project commencement minimizes budget overruns.

122

85

40

32

21

300

3.85

0.77

Agree

Effective communication among project stakeholders improves project delivery performance.

120

85

36

30

29

300

3.79

0.76

Agree

Timely procurement and availability of construction materials reduce project delays and cost escalation.

122

77

34

37

30

300

3.75

0.75

Agree

Effective financial planning and prompt release of project funds improve project delivery.

118

76

38

38

30

300

3.71

0.74

Agree

Employing qualified and experienced contractors improves time and cost management.

121

71

37

34

37

300

3.68

0.74

Agree

Effective risk management practices help minimize unforeseen delays and cost overruns.

111

76

40

39

34

300

3.64

0.73

Agree

The use of modern project management software and scheduling tools enhances project planning and control.

111

74

44

36

35

300

3.63

0.73

Agree

Source: Field Survey, 2025

Criterion Mean = 3.00

 

Decision Rule: Mean ≥ 3.00 = Agree; Mean < 3.00 = Disagree.

 

 

The results show that proper project planning and scheduling were rated as the most effective strategy, with a mean score of 4.07 and an RII of 0.81. This suggests that good planning and scheduling are key to finishing projects on time and keeping costs under control by using resources well and coordinating activities. Regular project monitoring and supervision came second, with a mean score of 4.02 and an RII of 0.80. Respondents agreed that ongoing monitoring helps spot problems early and allows for quick fixes, which improves project delivery and cost control. Accurate cost estimation before starting a project ranked third, with a mean score of 3.85 (RII = 0.77), showing that realistic budgets and reliable forecasts help avoid going over budget. Effective communication among project stakeholders was fourth, with a mean score of 3.79 (RII = 0.76), highlighting the need for clear information sharing and coordination. Timely procurement and availability of construction materials ranked fifth, with a mean score of 3.75 and an RII of 0.75, suggesting that having materials on hand helps prevent delays and extra costs. Effective financial planning and prompt release of project funds ranked sixth, with a mean score of 3.71 (RII = 0.74). Employing qualified and experienced contractors ranked seventh, with a mean score of 3.68 (RII = 0.74). These results show that good financial management and skilled project staff are important for successful project execution. Effective risk management practices ranked eighth, with a mean score of 3.64 (RII = 0.73), showing the value of identifying and reducing risks before they affect the project. The use of modern project management software and scheduling tools ranked ninth, with a mean score of 3.63 and an RII of 0.73. Even though this strategy ranked lowest, respondents still agreed that digital tools help with planning, monitoring, and control.

The findings show that proper project planning and scheduling are the most effective way to improve time and cost management. Other important strategies include regular project monitoring and supervision, accurate cost estimation, good communication among stakeholders, timely procurement of materials, effective financial planning, hiring qualified contractors, managing risks well, and using modern project management software and scheduling tools. This suggests that better planning, monitoring, financial management, and coordination with stakeholders can greatly improve project delivery. These results are consistent with Kerzner (2025), who stressed the importance of planning and scheduling for successful project management. They also support the Project Management Institute (2002), which highlights planning, monitoring, cost control, and stakeholder communication as key to project success. The findings further agree with Aziz and Hafez (2013), who found that modern project management tools help improve planning and monitoring, leading to better project performance. Similarly, the results match those of Chan and Chan (2004) and Toor and Ogunlana (2008), who pointed out that good coordination, stakeholder management, and solid project management practices are crucial for successful construction projects. Overall, this discussion shows that the study’s findings are mostly in line with existing research. It supports the idea that good planning, financial management, stakeholder coordination, and ongoing project monitoring are essential for better time and cost management and for successful residential construction projects.

 

 

5.0       CONCLUSION

 

This study examined the challenges of time and cost management in private residential construction projects in Owerri, Imo State. The findings revealed that ineffective project planning and scheduling, delays in material procurement, delayed payments to contractors and suppliers, poor site supervision, client-induced design changes, and shortages of skilled personnel are the major factors affecting time management. Similarly, inflation in material prices, inaccurate cost estimation and budgeting, exchange rate fluctuations, variation orders, poor fund management, and material wastage were identified as the major factors influencing cost management. The study further established that effective project planning and scheduling, regular project monitoring and supervision, accurate cost estimation, effective stakeholder communication, timely procurement of construction materials, sound financial planning, engagement of qualified contractors, risk management, and the adoption of modern project management tools are effective strategies for enhancing project time and cost performance. Overall, the study concludes that improving planning, financial control, procurement processes, supervision, and stakeholder coordination is essential for achieving timely project completion, minimizing cost overruns, and improving the overall performance of residential construction projects in Owerri.

 

 

6.0       RECOMMENDATIONS

 

Based on the findings, the study recommends that:

 

i.      Project owners and contractors should adopt comprehensive project planning and realistic scheduling to minimize delays.

ii.      Accurate cost estimation, budgeting, and effective financial management should be implemented to control project costs.

iii.     Regular project monitoring and effective site supervision should be strengthened to ensure timely project delivery.

iv.      Stakeholders should improve communication, minimize unnecessary design changes, and ensure timely procurement of construction materials.

v.      Construction firms should engage qualified personnel and adopt modern project management tools, such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) and scheduling software, to improve project performance.

vi.      Government and professional bodies should promote best project management practices through policy enforcement and capacity-building programmes.

 

 

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Cite this Article: Victor-Wokem, CG; Akujuru, VA; Ihuah, PW; Deeyah, CL (2026). Time and Cost Management Challenges in Private Residential Construction Projects Delivery in Owerri, Imo State. Greener Journal of Environmental Management and Public Safety, 14(1): 31-40, https://doi.org/10.15580/gjemps.2026.1.080626130