5 Costly Mistakes to Avoid During a Construction Project

When it comes to construction projects, even a small mistake can have a big impact on your timeline and budget. As a trusted general contractor in Virginia Beach, VA, we’ve seen firsthand how avoidable errors can derail a project. Whether you're planning a new commercial build, a renovation, or tenant improvements, knowing what to avoid can save you time, money, and headaches.

Here are five of the most costly construction mistakes—and how to avoid them.

1. Skipping the Preconstruction Phase
   Jumping into a build without thorough planning is one of the most common and expensive mistakes. Preconstruction is your opportunity to align budgets, designs, timelines, and permitting. Skipping or rushing this step can lead to delays, change orders, and cost overruns down the road.
   Tip: Work with a general contractor who offers preconstruction services to help you anticipate risks and plan proactively.
    
2. Hiring the Lowest Bidder Without Due Diligence
   While it's tempting to go with the lowest bid, cheaper doesn’t always mean better. Unqualified contractors can cut corners, overlook critical code requirements, or lack experience with your type of project.
   Tip: Always vet your contractors. Look for a contractor with strong references, relevant project experience, and a clear understanding of local building codes.
    
3. Inadequate Communication
   Poor communication between the owner, design team, and construction team is a fast track to misunderstandings and costly errors. From change orders to safety issues, a breakdown in communication can bring progress to a halt.
   Tip: Set expectations early. Choose a contractor who prioritizes regular updates, clear documentation, and open communication from day one
    
4. Underestimating the Budget
   It’s not just about the build—permits, utility upgrades, site prep, and contingency costs all add up. Underestimating the full cost of the project can leave you scrambling to make up the difference.
   Tip: Build in a contingency budget (10-15%) and work with a contractor who can help you understand the true cost of construction in the Hampton Roads area.
    
5. Overlooking Local Regulations and Permits
   Every city has its own set of zoning rules, environmental requirements, and permitting processes. Ignoring or misunderstanding local regulations can cause major project delays and even legal trouble.
   Tip: Choose a general contractor with experience navigating local permitting and compliance requirements. It’ll keep your project on track and within the law.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding these five construction mistakes can mean the difference between a successful build and a budget blowout. At TST Construction, we make construction easy by guiding our clients through every phase of the process—from preconstruction to closeout.

If you're planning a project in the surrounding Hampton Roads region, let’s connect. We’re here to help you avoid the pitfalls and build with confidence.