PART ONE CASE STUDY

CONSTRUCTION DEFECTS OF BUILDINGS IN ADIGRAT UNIVERSITY

1
Objectives of the study:
To identify types of building defects, occur in building.
To identify causes of building defects, occur in building.
To study on building defect occur at case study area.

INTRODUCTION
A construction defect is generally defined as a defect or deficiency in the design, the
construction, and/or in the materials or systems used on a project that may not be
readily observable and results in a building, structure or component that is not suitable
for the purpose intended.
Defect occurs to either the new building or the old ones. Defect within new buildings
is maybe of non-compliance with Building Code and published acceptable tolerances
and standards. Meanwhile the older buildings, or building out of warranty period, may
not comply with these standards but must be judged against the standard at the time of
construction or refurbishment.
Common types of construction defects include: structural defects resulting in cracks or
collapse; defective or faulty electrical wiring or lighting, defective or faulty plumbing,
inadequate drainage systems, faulty ventilation, insufficient insulation or sound
proofing, and also inadequate fire protection suppression systems.
In this case study, we in a group needed to go to some buildings in our campus and
other construction sites near to our campus to make some research about what we had
studied in the defects of construction practically. Besides, we also want to gain a new
knowledge and experience on how the construction progress of buildings is made on the
site.

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1) Stair Related Defects
I. Stair Riser Defects- looking to the standard code, it says the vertical
distance of the riser should be 10-15. But what we found in some of our
campus buildings was uneven.

Fig:1 Approximately this stair has a rise of 35 cm. (block 67)

II. Ramp slop defects- ramps shall be provided to allow wheelchair access
to disabled peoples. The maximum slope of a ramp should be 6o in order
to easily manage it. But if we take a look to our campus graduation hall
it is completely different.

fig:2 Ramp provided for wheel chair access graduation hall

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 III. Stair step defect- any of our campus caf steps are not comfortable for
disabled peoples. Also peoples on wheelchair, cant get the opportunity to
enter to cafe because of no ramps!

fig: 3 (caf)

IV. Again, lets look the picture below

Fig:4 Here again the clear vertical distance from the ground level to the floor level is 75 cm
without providing steps. (graduation hall)
2) Cracking of Walls/Leaning Walls
Apart from distributing loads from roofs and floors to foundations, external walls may
be harmful to a building if they are structurally unsound. Cracks in wall, either vertical or
diagonal, are common symptoms of structural instability. This type crack is common on
many buildings in our campus. Block 69.

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fig:4 cracked wall (block 69)

3) Water Supply Defect

In our campus, the defective water supply system installation has made the water
brownish in color, and Stoppage of supply Water seepage. As we have understood, the
problem starts with Blockage or leakage of components of the supply system such as
pipes, Rusty pipes or dirty supply tanks, breakage of supply pipe, Defective water tanks,
pipes and Defective or missing water tank cover.

fig:5 sample water

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 4) Plumbing Defect Leading to Dampness & paint peeling
Plumbing defect leading to dampness is caused by Leakage from bathroom above
usually caused by seepage from fitments, bathtubs, shower trays, buried pipes or drains
due to improper construction of joints and installation of sealants or occurrence of
cracks. Some of the plumbing defects we see are more in the way of nuisance or code
violations. These typically dont involve structural damage from leaks.
floor is having serious dampness problems at the exterior wall of the toilets. The water
has leaked through the wall from the toilet. Besides that, paint is peeling because of the
wet condition of the wall. White paint on the wall is peeled and the surface of the wall
becomes rough.

Fig:6 defective plumbing (block 123)

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 5) Structural Crack in Columns
These are Cracks that penetrate through finishes Down to the concrete. Structural
cracks may be caused by many factors, e.g. excessive movement of the building
structure, unwanted ground settlement, serious overloading, weaknesses caused by
corrosion/deterioration of materials, or damage by accidents, or poor design/
construction, etc.

fig:7 serious damage of column! Not only defect! (block 64)

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 6) Poor Material Handling
Since materials are investments made by the owner & the contractor, it should be
handled properly so that it can be used for the intended purpose and also it can be re-
used again. Here in our campus around block 68, reinforcing bars of different size have
been stored for more than 3 years without any protection from weathering action.

fig:8 poor material (reinforcing bar) handling. (in front of block 68)

7) Manhole Defect
Manholes provided at junctions of sewer lines are important to control & facilitate the
flow of sewage. It should be designed and constructed properly, since it carries waste
material. If not, it will lead to leakage of waste material on the surface of roads &
buildings which has bad smell then finally causing disease.

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 8) Ponding of Water on Floors
Ponding of water may be because many reasons like workmanship problem in
constructing imperfect floor slopes forming depression at the middle of the floor and
clogging of plumbing pipes. It leads to dampness and disintegration of floor finishes.

fig:10 ponding on floors (block 103)

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CONCLUSION
Defect analysis is not so easy task but it is very important because the building service
life and safety is always depending on the strength and durability of building
components and that components are defect free ultimately we get the best service life
and safety.
The main objective of this project study is a preliminary examination of defect with
respect to minimize the cost of construction and improve the quality of construction.
Occurrences of defects in buildings lead to lowering the customers satisfaction level, to
stand and progress with increasing reputation in market, customer oriented
construction of buildings needs to be constructed to improve quality and service to end
users. On the other hand, most important cause is poor workmanship, especially do not
compliance with the instruction given in the specification is also responsible for the
occurrence of defects.
Inspection of building (which is discussed in the next part of this project) is necessary at
specific time interval throughout life of building. The lack of maintenance or incorrect
maintenance can reduce the effective life of a material, far lower than it should be
achieved.

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Recommendations
A) In the Design Phase:
i. Proper Production Management:
During design phase, architect should implement procedures that will subject the
design to extensive review and analysis before it is released to construction.
Involvement of design team members and subcontractors.
Proper management of construction documents.
Complete and well-coordinated set of design development documents.
ii. Peer Review:
Development of complete, accurate, well-coordinated design and construction
documents that are internally consistent and contain all of the information
necessary for the contractor to construct a building without design defects.
iii. Owner Involvement:
The inevitable design changes and coordination that will occur throughout the
design phase will be more effectively accomplished prior to the start of the
construction documents phase.
iv. Design Schedule:
Avoid accelerated and shortened design phase.
v. Design and Construction Coordination:
Architect and contractor should establish and maintain open lines of
communication throughout the project.
vi. Construction Managers constructability review of the design and
construction documents during the preconstruction phase of the project will help
to minimize potential of design defects.
B) Construction Phase:
1. Quality Management Implementation, by the contractor, of a comprehensive
quality assurance and quality control program is critical throughout the
construction phase of the project.
2. New Building Technology:
Conduct in-depth inspections of the work by both the architect and the
contractor.
Use experience and trained workers.
Require pre-certification and/or training of the workers by the manufacturer
prior to the commencement of the project.
Use the same crew throughout the project.

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PART TWO CONSTRUCTION INSPECTION DOCUMENT
CHEKLIST FOR CONSTRUCTION WORK EXECUTION

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Objectives of the study:
To prepare a construction site inspection checklist document.
To check whether work execution proceeds as per the plans or not.
To study the consequences of faulty inspection.

INTRODUCTION
Inspection checklists are critical quality control tools for the entire construction
industry. It lists critical quality concerns from a variety of stakeholders. It is used to build
consensus among all parties for the most important items to be done right by improving
the success of a project.
General managers, owners, and general contractors can use checklist data for deciding
which sub-contractors provided the best ROI (return on investment). This is important
to make decision on taking another bid. Super intendants and other QC personnel can
use the same checklists that contractors and works crews used.
Checklists should verify compliance to quality control policies and procedures. Sign-off
of a checklist should occur only when the work complies with all of the relevant
specifications. Failing to prepare complete inspection checklist may lead to defective
execution of construction works that was discussed on the previous section of this
project.
It is clear, using construction inspection checklists will help a project to improve quality
and the success of the project.

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 SETTING OUT INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Company name:
Jobsite name:
Jobsite location:
Date:
Superintendent:
Supervisor:
Current weather conditions:
Approval Date Remark
Activity and details Yes No
Benchmarks verified & protected?
Independent surveyor appointed?
Approach and methodology for setting
out agreed with Contractor?
Approach and methodology for setting
out audits agreed and programmed?

Required reference lines and pegs for

elementary checks agreed?
Critical dimensions and coordinates on
drawings cross checked for
discrepancies?
Levels and dimensions of existing
features verified?
Minimum clearances checked?

Alignment & level of minor drainage

structures to match actual site
conditions?
Supervisors full name:
Signature:
Date:
Company stamp:

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 EARTHWORK INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Company name:
Jobsite name:
Jobsite location:
Date:
Superintendent:
Supervisor:
Current weather conditions:
Approval Date
Activity and details Yes No Remark
1. Survey
Does the initial survey carried out by a
licensed surveyor & witnessed by the
engineers representative?
At least 3 temporary bench marks
established and approved by the
engineer?
All survey pegs properly labelled and
shown in the survey drawings?
2. Excavation/Removal of
unsuitable material
Does mackintosh probe carried out
before removal of unsuitable
material?
Types of different materials recorded
and photographed in the daily report?
Depth of excavation recorded in the
site daily report?
When cutting, the contractor
excavated from the top of the slope &
work his way down?
Over excavation of slope or ground
happened?

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 Engineer has designated all items to
be preserved? (Plants, trees, shrubs, &
misc.)
Environmental clearances met and
Endangered Species requirements
considered?
All excavated material removed to the
approved dump site?
3. Backfilling & compaction
Source of fill material approved by the
engineer?
All works comply with local, state and
the national codes?
Seam between foundation and footing
sealed watertight?
Basement foundation water proofing
complete according to quality
standards?
Footing drains installed properly
according to plans?
Are all debris and garbage removed
from trenches, around foundation and
in backfill area?
Is foundation properly braced?
The contractor shall carryout the following
tests as required by the engineer:
Natural moisture content test
Atterberg limits
Soil classification tests (sieve analysis
& hydrometer test) & FDD
Laboratory compaction test
Organic content
Suitable backfill material dried first
before use?

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 Field compaction test carried out at
every compaction layer as per the
drawings and specification?

4. Temporary drainage
Are temporary drainage/pipes
provided for effective drainage until
the construction of permanent
drainage?
5. Utilities
Are all underground/overhead utilities
protected during the earthwork
operation?
Repairs made for damage of utilities
due to the construction/earthwork?

Supervisors full name:

Signature:
Date:

Company stamp:

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 CONCRETE WORK INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Company name:
Jobsite name:
Jobsite location:
Date:
Superintendent:
Supervisor:
Current weather conditions:
Approval Date Remark
Activity and details Yes No
1) COLUMNS
Proper grade of concrete used?
Proper size of aggregate used?
Proper water cement ratio used?
Segregation of concrete allowed?
Are concreters working safely?
Are lines, sizes, diagonals and plumb
of column shuttering proper?
Is de-shuttering oil applied to
shuttering material prior to concrete
placement?
Is the level up to which concreting is to
be done marked?
Is reinforcement cover on top
checked?
Are formwork supports checked if they
are intact and not displaced?
Is the reinforcement checked if it is as
per the structural drawing?
Are the side supports proper to
maintain the position & verticality of
column shuttering?
Are the spacing and lap length of
reinforcement proper above concrete
level?

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 Concrete dropped from allowable
height?
Is slump test taken if concreting is
done with ready mix concrete?
Is the availability of either vibrator or
labor for tamping checked?
Is the concrete filled up to marked
level?
Concrete subjected to any disturbance
within 24 hours after compaction?
Is Stripping of formwork done at the
right time properly after 24 hours?
Proper Curing of column done? (for 7
to 10 days)
Surface finish done properly?
2) BEAMS & SLAB
Proper grade of concrete used?
Proper size of aggregate used?
Proper water cement ratio used?
Segregation of concrete allowed?
Is the formwork deck being laid safely?
Is the formwork structurally
adequate?
Is de-shuttering oil applied to
shuttering material prior to concrete
placement?
Are concreters working safely?
Beam to beam measurements checked
as per architectural drawings?
Are Individual level & diagonal of each
slab checked?
Are Slab thickness & beam depths
checked?
Are Support props for slab & beam
bottoms in line & plumb?
Was a Carpenter present below the
slab shuttering during concreting to
ensure formwork joint perfection?

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 Junctions of columns & beam shall be
checked so that they are watertight.
Is reinforcement checked for beams
and slab as per R.C.C drawing?
Is Proper cover for bottom /sides
checked for beams?
Is Proper cover checked for slab?
Are Electrical points, electrical piping
(conduits)/fan hooks checked before
concreting?
Concreting shall be done for the
beams first & then slabs.
Is the availability of either vibrator or
labor for tamping checked?
Protection provided for the fresh
finished concrete? (In case of rains &
other activities)
Is Stripping of formwork done at the
right time properly?
beam outer sides- after 24 hours
beam inner sides- after 48 hours
beam bottoms- after 14 days
slab- after 7 days (for up to 3m)
Are Hacking of the beam sides, beam
bottoms, slab bottoms done within 1
or 2 days after stripping of formwork?
Proper Curing of beams & slab done?
(7-10 days)
Surface finish done properly?

Supervisors full name:

Signature:
Date:
Company stamp:

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 FORMWORK INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Company name:
Jobsite name:
Jobsite location:
Date:
Superintendent:
Supervisor:
Current weather conditions:
Activity and details Approval Date Remark
Yes No
1) COLUMNS
Is the formwork Designed by
competent person?
Adequate diagonal and horizontal
braces in the design?
Design checked by Construction
Manager/Project Manager?
Copy of drawing extended to
Formwork Supervisor?
Material used in adequate in strength?
Form constructed to accordance to
design?
Was experienced supervisor available
at site while installing the column
forms and while placing concrete?
Was there Adequate supply of spare
props, clamps, bolts, wedges and
skilled workers at site?
Is fall protection in place for work over
2 meters?
Forms adequately braced or tied to
maintain shape and position? (with
props, tie back)

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 Is de-shuttering oil applied to the
formwork material prior to concrete
placement?
Forms effectively secured to the
shoring system?
Shoring system in good condition and
in adequate size?
Is Spacing of members and bracing as
designated?
Shoring rests on firm and uniform
footing?
Lateral bracings provided firmly
supports the forms at all points of
support?
Block out (stop end) braced to resist
vertical and lateral loads?
Are Formwork corners adequately tied
to prevent leakage or bulging and
spreading of concrete?
Is sufficient length provided for wall
ties and has sufficient strength and
spacing as required?
Are Wall ties and bolts tightened
properly?
Proper & adequate lap between forms
and previously cast concrete?
Alignment, camber, level and plumb
(verticality) maintained while
concreting is in progress?
Does grout leakage occur at joints
between panels and joints between
old concrete and panels above them?
Cover of concrete around
reinforcement steel maintained as
specified?
Spilt concrete and/or grout cleaned
immediately?

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 Concrete pouring sequence as per that
shown on formwork drawing? (avoid
eccentric loading)
Formwork carefully stripped and not
dropped and not damaged?
After stripping the formwork, is Dust,
dirt, & stubborn bits of concrete or
grout removed?
All formwork materials stored with
respective Storage area protected
from rain and moisture and well
ventilated?
2) BEAMS
Is the formwork Designed by
competent person?
Adequate diagonal and vertical braces
in the design?
Design checked by Construction
Manager/Project Manager?
Material used in adequate in strength?
Was experienced supervisor available
at site while installing the beam forms
and while placing concrete?

Are every open sides or openings

covered or guarded by
effective means to prevent falls?
Are Joints of beam bottom properly
propped? so that formwork doesnt
bulge during concreting?
Is the level of the beam bottom
checked Before providing beam sides?
Is the Beam soffit thickened timber or
strengthened plywood?
Is Allowance made for height
adjustment of the props?
Forms adequately braced or tied to
maintain shape and position?

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 Is Spacing of members and bracing as
designated?
Vertical members provided firmly
support the forms at all points of
support?
Are Formwork corners adequately tied
to prevent leakage or bulging and
spreading of concrete?
Cover of concrete around
reinforcement steel maintained as
specified?
Spilt concrete and/or grout cleaned
immediately?
Formwork carefully stripped and not
dropped and not damaged?
After stripping the formwork, is Dust,
dirt, & stubborn bits of concrete or
grout removed?
Are all formwork materials stored with
respective Storage area protected
from rain and moisture and well
ventilated?
3) SLAB
Is the formwork Designed by
competent person?
Design checked by Construction
Manager/Project Manager?
Was experienced supervisor available
at site while installing the beam forms
and while placing concrete?
Are every open sides or openings
covered or guarded by
effective means to prevent falls?
Material used in adequate in strength?
Are props truly vertical?

Is the center-to-center distance of

props as specified?

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 Is scaffolding spacing as specified?
Is leakage proof material used in every
shutter joint to prevent water
leakage?
Is Inside of form properly cleaned?
Is de-shuttering oil applied to the
formwork material prior to concrete
placement?
Is the slab level proper in all direction?
Is horizontal bracing used around
periphery?
Are Formwork corners adequately tied
to prevent leakage or bulging and
spreading of concrete?
Formwork carefully stripped and not
dropped and not damaged?
After stripping the formwork, is Dust,
dirt, & stubborn bits of concrete or
grout removed?
Are all formwork materials stored with
respective Storage area protected
from rain and moisture and well
ventilated?

Supervisors full name:

Signature:
Date:
Company stamp:

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 MASONRY WORK INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Company name:
Jobsite name:
Jobsite location:
Date:
Superintendent:
Supervisor:
Current weather conditions:
Activity and details Approval Date Remark
Yes No
1) BRICK
Are the bricks to be used as specified
in the drawing?
Design checked by Construction
Manager/Project Manager?
Are Brick Materials used adequate in
strength?
Are ground clearance provisions
correct?
Are lintel bars spanning openings as
per consent documentation and
flashings correct?
Have shelf angles been installed and
flashed correctly?
Correct treatment of framing
supporting shelf angles?
Are wall ties, spacing and spans as
specified?
Are window and door opening details
correct, including flashings?

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 Have control joints been correctly
installed?
Have bricks been laid even and
straight?
Have bricks been laid with proper
bond according to the drawings &
specification?
Is the minimum brick wall panel width
according to the specification?
Are all Mortar joints uniform and not
exceeding the specified?
Is Cavity sealed from roof
space?(Soffits is blocked off)
Is Internal and external cladding
formed correctly?
Do Brick and mortar agree with
selection?
Cracked & Loose units, Deteriorated
Mortar Joints, & Efflorescence found?
Is adequate mortar applied to the
column where the brickwork would be
touching the column?
Are door openings Provided at the first
level and window openings at sill level
as per working drawings?
Are level and right angles at the corner
correct?
Is proper Curing done for 7 to 10 days?

2) STONE
Are the stones to be used as specified
in the drawing?
Are ground clearance provisions
correct?
Are wall ties, spacing and spans as
specified?

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 Is the stone sound, durable, angular,
and free from significant cracks or
flaws?
Proper size of stone used as per
design?
Prior to placement ensure that stones
are clean, then saturate with water.
Was mortar bed placed with the
required thickness?
Are vertical joints Staggered?
Are window and door opening details
correct, including flashings?
Has stone been laid even and
straight?
Has stone been laid with proper bond
according to the drawings &
specification?
Is the minimum stone wall panel width
according to the specification?
Are all Mortar joints uniform and not
exceeding the specified?
Do stone and mortar agree with
selection?
Cracked & Loose units, Deteriorated
Mortar Joints, & Efflorescence found?
Is adequate mortar applied to the
column where the stone would be
touching the column?
Are level and right angles at the corner
correct?
Is proper Curing done?
3) Block work (HCB)
Are the blocks to be used as specified
in the drawing?
Is the size & dimensions as specified in
the drawing?

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 Is Design checked by Construction
Manager/Project Manager?

Are block Materials used adequate in

strength?
Are ground clearance provisions
correct?
Are lintel bars spanning openings as
per consent documentation and
flashings correct?
Have shelf angles been installed and
flashed correctly?
Are window and door opening details
correct, including flashings?
Do blocks and mortar agree with
selection?
Have blocks been laid even and
straight?
Have blocks been laid with proper
bond according to the drawings &
specification?
Are all Mortar joints uniform and not
exceeding the specified?
Is Cavity sealed from roof
space?(Soffits is blocked off)
Is adequate mortar applied to the
column where the blockwork would be
touching the column?
Are door openings Provided at the first
level and window openings at sill level
as per working drawings?
Is Internal and external cladding
formed correctly?
Cracked & Loose units, Deteriorated
Mortar Joints, & Efflorescence found?

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 Is the Structural capability of the
masonry as expected?
Is the Thermal mass and insulation as
per design?
Is Fire and vermin resistance as per
design?
Is the block Durability and moisture
resistance as per design?
Are the mortar joints as per design and
specification?
Are control (expansion) & articulated
joints as per design?
Is proper Curing done?

Supervisors full name:

Signature:
Date:
Company stamp:

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 REINFORCEMENT BAR ERECTION INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Company name:
Jobsite name:
Jobsite location:
Date:
Superintendent:
Supervisor:
Current weather conditions:
Activity and details Approval Date Remark
Yes No
A) Storage
Storage provided adequate? Drainage
provided?
Steel properly blocked and stacked?
Evidence of excessive rusting?
Faying surfaces properly protected?
High strength bolting segregated from
common fasteners?
B) Bolting
Bolts, nuts, washers square with
mating surface?
No paint or foreign material on
contact surfaces?
Correct material and size used on high
strength connections?
Evidence of distorted metal or
enlarged bolt holes from improper
alignment?
Evidence of enlarging holes by
burning?
High strength bolts torqued to
specification requirements?

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 Means provided to indicate which
joints/bolts have been torqued?
Torque wrench periodically calibrated?
Status of completed high strength
connections recorded on drawings and
appropriate records?
C) Erection
Members accurately shimmed,
wedged, plumbed and aligned prior to
final connection?
Shims used are actual shim stock?
Entry holes through members are
authorized by drawing?
Anchor bolts proper size, setting and
location?
Bending dimensions as per the
drawing?
D) Placing & Fixing
Type of steel as specified?
Diameter of bars as specified?
Bar marks as specified?
Are all bars straight?
Spacing / Number of bars as per the
drawings?
Concrete cover as per the drawing?
Laps (alternating) as per the drawing?
Grouping of bars (clearances to create
space for placing and vibrating
concrete) as per the drawing?
Spacers properly provided?
Projecting anchor bars?
Cleanliness of reinforcement?
Spacer block type as per the drawing?
Proper Spacer block positions?
spacing checked before and after
concrete placement?

32
 Are there any special trim reinforcing
bars required at sleeves or openings,
identified in typical details?
Is the reinforcement properly placed
adjacent to construction joints?

Any reinforcement congestion

problems, checked & evaluated prior
to concrete placement?
Punching shear stud assemblies tied
properly or attached properly to
formwork?
Beam bars should be passing through
column reinforcement fully.
Check the joints beam-column joint
details as per detailed drawing-
flexible or rigid.
Make sure that Oil not come in contact
with surface of reinforcement. It will
reduce the bond.

Supervisors full name:

Signature:
Date:
Company stamp:

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 ROOFING WORK INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Company name:
Jobsite name:
Jobsite location:
Date:
Superintendent:
Supervisor:
Current weather conditions:

Activity and details Approval Date Remark

Yes No
A) Metal & Wood Truss Roof
Design checked by Construction
Manager/Project Manager?
Copy of drawing extended to masonry
Supervisor?
Quality roofing materials available on
site?
Skilled workers available at site?
Are every open sides or openings
covered or guarded by effective means
to prevent falls?
Truss and purlin alignment as per
design?
Dimensions & height of roof as per
design?
Truss posts (vertical members) spacing
as per design?
Deformed Edges occur?
Roof slope as per design?
Corrosion occurred?

Spalling (chipping or crumbling)?

34
 Cracking occurred?
Buckling of roof?
Sagging & ponded water on roof?
Open Joints?
Water Leaks?
Foot Traffic Damage?
Holes that allow entering of animals
inside the roof structure?
Any exposed nails?
Bad Deck Condition?
Chimney/flue stacks?
Expansion joints present?
Drains, gutters & downpipe
connection
Proper Gutter Anchors as per design?
Drains/Downspouts as per design?
Broken & cracked downpipes?
Leakage proof joints of pipes &
gutters?
Clear of Debris?
Roof drains clogged?
Are the downpipes firmly in place and
directing water away from the house
foundation?
Ceiling Conditions
Cracks?
Water Staining?
Water Leaks?
Seasonal Change?
B) Concrete Roof
Grade of concrete used as per design?

35
 Size of aggregate used as per design?
Is the formwork deck being laid safely?
Is the formwork structurally
adequate?
Segregation of concrete allowed?
Are concreters working safely?
Are Individual level & diagonal of the
roof checked?
Are Junctions of columns & beam
checked so that they are watertight
Is the availability of either vibrator or
labor for tamping checked?
Are Electrical points, electrical piping
(conduits)/fan hooks checked before
concreting?
Was a Carpenter present below the
slab shuttering during concreting to
ensure the tightness of the form
work?
Damp proofing material used as per
design?
Slope provided as per design?
Protection provided for the fresh
finished concrete? (In case of rains &
other activities)
Is Stripping of formwork done at the
right time properly? after 7 days (for
up to 3m)
Proper Curing of roof done as per
design? (7-10 days)
Surface finish done properly as per
design?
Ceiling Conditions
Cracks?
Water Staining?
Water Leaks?
Seasonal Change?

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 FINISHING WORK INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Company name:
Jobsite name:
Jobsite location:
Date:
Superintendent:
Supervisor:
Current weather conditions:
Activity and details Approval Date
Yes No Remark
A) PLASTERING
Fineness of sand as recommended in
construction manual?
Grade of cement as specified in the
construction manual?
The platform, on which plaster mortar
will be mixed, is properly cleaned?
And plain and dry?
Is the sand screened before mixing
with cement? So that any big particles
from the sand can be removed.
Is cement and sand ratio maintained
for mixing as recommended in
construction manual?
Cement and sand should be mixed in
dry condition. Check the dry mix is
properly mixed before adding water.
Is Water content in mix less or more?
It should be appropriate as needed.
Is the mortar being used within 45
minutes after adding water? Since,
Cement's initial setting time is 45
minutes.

37
 Is the thickness of plaster as per the
design?

Lighting availability when internal

plastering?
Is the Silt content of sand to be used
checked?
Proper & safe scaffoldings provided
for workers?
Are all door frames and window bare
frames checked for verticality and
alignment?
level dots made in advance?
Are all services works such as electric
piping, plumbing and sanitary piping,
air condition piping (if any), etc.
completed before starting plaster?
Is wire mash provided in masonry and
RCC joint and where electrical pipes
run and where necessary?
Are all the RCC surfaces chipped?
Are all required tools and materials for
plastering available at site?
Are mortar wastage reduction
mechanisms used?
For outside plastering, is water
proofing agent mixed with mortar?
The surface, on which plaster will be
applied, is properly watered previous
day of plastering? so that it doesn't
suck water from mortar.
Is the surface where plaster will be
applied free from dust, fungus and any
loose mortar?
After plastering, is the level of plaster
proper & as per design?
Are all edges and corners sharp and
straight?

38
 Window border checked with plumb
bob or spirit level which are straight.
Is the window sill plain and even?
Are the cavities between masonry and
RCC surface properly filled with
mortar? Specially check the cavity
between RCC beam and masonry wall
joint.
Are all the masonry block joints
properly filled with mortar?
Curing done as per the design?
B) PAINTING
Selected painting materials available
on site?
Skilled labor available on site?
Has the plaster finish been checked for
quality prior to painting and after the
first coat of paint?
Proper & safe scaffoldings provided
for painters?
Are correct paints used in areas like
kitchens and bathrooms, doors and
window frames according to the
specifications & drawings?
Is the preparatory work of a sufficient
standard filling holes, touching up
plaster sanding, use of correct
undercoats?
Are the paints being used the brands
specified?
In case of mixing, have the painters
got the correct colors as specified?
The paint coats comply with good
workmanship and specifications in the
bill of quantities?
Visible & detectable defects found?

39
 The executed finishes comply with
approved drawings?

C) FLOOR FINISH( for tiles)

Selected floor finishing materials
available on site?
Skilled labor available on site?
Has the hardcore & slab condition
been checked for quality prior to
flooring?
Are correct & compatible finishes used
in areas like kitchens and bathrooms,
living rooms, corridors and toilets
according to the specifications &
drawings?
Quality of finishing materials as
specified?
All installation-related debris removed
from flooring area?
Are there any floor drains?
Do the adjacent floor slopes make
sense for the intended use of the
floor?
Does the proposed finished floor
provide a safe and hazard free
environment?
Comply to Slip Resistance? (Coefficient
of friction for dry & wet.)
Does the material selected comply to
the respective water absorption and
compressive strength requirements?
Does the material selected have joints
that are adequately spaced to cater
for movement to prevent de-bonding?

40
 Hard to reach areas such as around
corners, cabinet cutouts, closets,
corners, etc. are properly finished
without major blemishes?
Visible & detectable defects found?

The executed finishes comply with

approved drawings?
D) Pointing
Are all pointing carried out with the
mortar in the mix specified?
Is the concrete grade as specified?
Are all pointing materials and skilled
labor available in the site?
Are joints well washed out and wetted
before the work is done?
Is mortar well and firmly pressed into
the joints to fill the whole of the
cavity, using a pointing trowel
care to avoid smearing over the face
of adjoining masonry?
Do pointing method and bricks,
stones, & blocks agree?
Cracked, Loose units, & Deteriorated
Mortar Joints found?
Is proper curing done?

Supervisors full name:

Signature:
Date:
Company stamp:

41
 ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Company name:
Jobsite name:
Jobsite location:
Date:
Superintendent:
Supervisor:
Current weather conditions:
Activity and details Approval Date
Yes No Remark
A) Ground Rod Earth Resistance
Are ground rods installed to the
correct depth?
Is the earth resistance measured and
recorded?
Maximum acceptable earth resistance
as per Specification detected?
B) Light Installation
Installed lighting fixtures comply with
fixture schedule drawing?
Lighting fixture location is correct as
shown on the design approved shop
drawing?
Lighting fixture and fittings are
installed correctly and tightly as
specified in the specification?
Lighting fixture fitted with fuse holder
and enclosure cover?
Cable wire color code is correct and
identification tags installed at panel
board?
Continuity and grounding test
completed?

42
 All wire entries are sealed with a non-
setting sealant?
C) Combination Starter, PB and
Selector Switches Control
System Components
Equipment/components installed per
approved drawings and material
submittals?
Equipment/components installed at
correct location and elevation?
Cable/wire color code correct and
tagging identification installed?
Control wiring connected per
approved drawing?
Auto-off-manual selector operation is
correct?
The test equipment connected
properly?
D) Conduit and Junction / Outlet
Boxes Installation
Conduit adequately supported?
Support alignment checked?
Bends free of damage?
Conduit & fittings correct size & type?
Boxes installed are the correct size &
type?
Boxes are properly supported and
installed at correct elevation?
Proper identification on box?
Metallic conduit solidly grounded?
E) Cable & Cable Accessories /
Panel-board / Wiring Devices
Panel-board installed at proper
elevation?
circuit breaker accessories provided
are per approved drawings?

43
 Installed wiring devices and plates
with approved material submittals?
Cable wire correct size and type?
Installed terminal lugs are correct size
and application?
F) Final Inspection
Check the operation of all switches.
Inspect all light fixtures to ensure all
lamps are operational.
Make sure all equipment is connected
and operational.
Check egress and exit lighting.
Check to ensure the color coding for
each voltage is be posted at each
branch circuit panel board.
Temporary wiring used only for
remodeling, maintenance, & repair?
Conductors entering boxes and
cabinets protected from abrasion?
Equipment and wiring approved for
the hazardous location or intrinsically
safe?
Check for proper use of connectors
and fittings and for protection of
cables.
Live parts effectively protected and
warning sign attached along an
electric shock symbol?
Visible & detectable defects found?

Supervisors full name:

Signature:
Date:
Company stamp:

44
 SANITARY INSTALLATION INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Company name:
Jobsite name:
Jobsite location:
Date:
Superintendent:
Supervisor:
Current weather conditions:
Activity and details Approval Date
Yes No Remark
A) Underground Installation
Materials available as per design?
Pipes directly embedded in concrete?
All pipes passing through walls
protected from breakage?
Voids around piping passing through
concrete floors appropriately sealed?
No flat venting?
Pipe trenches parallel to footings
offset a minimum of 45 degrees from
footing bearing line.
Piping properly supported?

Size of septic tank as per design?

Safety to public considered?

Venting installed as per design?

Pipe size and gradient as per design?
Bedding material as per design?
Correct fittings / bends are used?
type and class of pipe checked?

45
 leak proof Pipe joints?
B) Above ground (under slab)
Type and class of pipe as per design?
Size of pipe as per design?
Proper Handling of pipe?
Leak proof Pipe joints?
Voids around piping passing through
concrete floors appropriately sealed?
Piping properly supported?
Venting installed as per design?
Slope of piping as per design?
Support alignment checked?
Correct fittings / bends are used?
All faucets, drinking fountains, toilets,
and urinals functional?
Proper support of horizontal piping?
All piping in contact with concrete
protected?
Water lines are of the correct pipe
materials and properly size?

Supervisors full name:

Signature:
Date:
Company stamp:

46
 MATERIAL STORE INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Company name:
Jobsite name:
Jobsite location:
Date:
Superintendent:
Supervisor:
Current weather conditions:
Activity and details Approval Date
Yes No Remark
A) Access to Exits and Emergency
Response Equipment
Exit doors are visible and free of
obstructions on both sides of the
doors?
Exits are visible and unobstructed by
stored items?
Fire extinguishers are accessible?
B) Hazardous Materials
Flammable and combustible materials
are stored away from ignition sources?
No noticeable leaks or spills are
present?
C) Storage Areas
Is equipment stored in designated
areas when not in use?
Storage shelves are not overloaded?
Have employees been trained in
material storage and handling
procedures?
Are the designated storage areas
orderly?
Are materials stacked appropriately
and securely?

47
 Is the lighting in storage areas
adequate?
Do workers return tools and materials
to their proper locations immediately
after use?
Storage shelving units and cabinets are
secured from tipping?
File drawers are closed when not in
use?
Materials are stored to minimize
unnecessary climbing, reaching, and
bending?

Cabinet doors are closed and latched?

Heavy, awkward, and/or frequently
accessed items are stored on the
ground and no higher than knee
height?
Nothing is stored in electrical and
mechanical rooms?
Nothing is suspended from the fire
suppression system pipes?
Items stored vertically, such as pipes,
lumber, bars, ladders, are secured to
prevent unintended movement?
Guardrails and toe-boards are in place
in elevated storage areas?
Clear aisles are provided throughout
the storage area to reduce trip/fall
incidents?
Excess or idle power cables, ropes, and
hoses are coiled in neat stacks or hung
on the walls?
Appropriate ladders and step stools
are provided for accessing shelves
above shoulder level?
Palletized items are shrink-wrapped to
prevent unintended movement?

48
 Manual lifting and carrying devices
(dollies, hand trucks, pry bars, and
hooks) are available and in good
condition?
Heavy materials are stored where
there is enough space to lift them
safely, without reaching or twisting?
Materials are delivered as close as
possible to where they will be used?
Before lifting and carrying heavy
objects, workers plan the task,
including resting points if necessary?
Loads are lifted and lowered
gradually?
storage areas kept clean and free of
debris and waste throughout the
workday?
Are ventilation systems kept clear of
dust, debris and obstructions?
Are walkways wide enough for
equipment and safety accessible?

Supervisors full name:

Signature:
Date:
Company stamp:

49
 WORKMANSHIP INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Company name:
Jobsite name:
Jobsite location:
Date:
Superintendent:
Supervisor:
Current weather conditions:
Approval Date Remark
Activity and details Yes No
Is workmanship as the respective
character, quality or kind required by
the Contract and in accordance with
the Engineers instructions?
Has the Contractor provided such
assistance, instruments, machines,
and other facilities as may be
necessary for examining, measuring or
testing any work and the quality?
Were there any examination,
measurement or test made complying
with the requirements of
workmanship?
Are works covered up or put out of
view without the approval of the
Engineer? and has the Contractor
afforded full opportunity for the
Engineer to examine and measure any
work which is about to be covered up?
Does proper standard of workmanship
and the appropriate use of any
material incorporated?
Are persons competent, possessing
sufficient training, experience and
knowledge appropriate to the nature
of the work he or she is required to

50
 perform and having particular regard
to the size and complexity of such
works?
Is there an organized management
scheme specifying how workmanship
will deliver a declared level of
performance?
Poor workmanship found on setting
out, earthwork & concrete work?
Poor workmanship found on formwork
erection, masonry work &
reinforcement bar erection?
Poor workmanship found on roofing
work, finishing work, electrical &
sanitary installation?
Are formwork supports checked if they
are intact and not displaced?

Supervisors full name:

Signature:
Date:
Company stamp:

51
 EQUIPMENT INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Company name:
Jobsite name:
Jobsite location:
Date:
Superintendent:
Supervisor:
Current weather conditions:
Activity and details Approval Date
Yes No Remark
A) General
Have all users of the equipment been
given adequate training in correct use,
risks and precautions?
Is the equipment being used in
accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions?
Is the equipment used in an
appropriate environment? (consider
e.g. ventilation, damp, flammable
conditions)
If the equipment may be moved, is the
weight known?
Are there clear warning notices or
markings (e.g. to wear personal
protection, restriction on use, list of
authorized users) where appropriate?
B) Maintenance
Temporary Maintenance garages
available in the site?
Have clear maintenance instructions
been given to those responsible for
maintaining the equipment?
Skilled garage operator available?

52
C) Specific Hazards & protection
Is protection adequate in relation to
items falling from the equipment,
overturning, collapse and fire?
Is there sufficient general and, where
necessary, local lighting?
Is there protection against contact
with hot or very cold temperature, so
far as appropriate?
Is local exhaust ventilation tested for
dust & pollution?
Are all dangerous parts of the
machinery guarded?
Is there any system of work which
ensures that nobody is in a dangerous
position when machinery is about to
be started?
All tools checked daily and damaged
or unsafe tool removed from service?
D) Detailed Investigation
Vibratory Plate Compactor
Is the equipment in good condition?
Is the equipment loaded only when
ready for use and unloaded when
work interrupted?
Are Employees trained in tool use and
how to inspect?
Is the equipment inspected and
cleaned as required? And always
attended?
Are Underside, engines, and drums in
good condition?
Is the Productivity of the equipment in
a good condition?

53
 Dump Trucks
Are Engines in a good condition?
Are Lights in a good condition?
Are seat belts in a good condition?
Are glass & rear view mirrors in a good
condition?
Are horns in a good condition?
Are Batteries in a good condition?
Is fuel system in a good condition?
Are brakes in a good condition?
Are wheels in a good condition?
Is Drivers Cabin in a good condition?
Hoist ( Hydraulic hoist)
Are workers prohibited from riding the
hoist?
Is overhead protection provided over
the cage or platform and the
operators position?
Has wire rope been inspected for
harmful defects?
Are brakes capable of stopping and
holding loads?
Are re-entrances to hoist way guarded
or barricaded?
Excavator
Is bucket ripper in a good condition?
Is jack hammer in a good condition?
Is cabin (safety belt, driver seat,
mirrors) in a good condition?
Are Backup lights and front lights
working?
Are warning devices (Horns, alarms,
lights, reversing beeper) working?

54
 Are brakes in a good condition?
Are hydraulic components in a good
condition?
Are Batteries in a good condition?
Is fuel system in a good condition?
Loader
Are Engines in a good condition?
Are rear & front Lights in a good
condition?
Is cabin (safety belt, driver seat,
mirrors) in a good condition?
Are warning devices (Horns, alarms,
lights, reversing beeper) working?
Are Batteries in a good condition?
Is fuel system in a good condition?
Are brakes in a good condition?
Are wheels in a good condition?
Is bucket in a good condition?

Supervisors full name:

Signature:
Date:
Company stamp:

55
 STAIR FORMWORK ERECTION & CONCRETE CASTING
INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Company name:
Jobsite name:
Jobsite location:
Date:
Superintendent:
Supervisor:
Current weather conditions:
Activity and details Approval Date Remark
Yes No
A) Form Work Erection
Is the formwork Designed by
competent person?
Design checked by Construction
Manager/Project Manager?
Adequate diagonal and horizontal
braces in the design?
Was experienced supervisor available
at site while installing the stair forms?
Was there Adequate supply of spare
props, clamps, bolts, wedges and
skilled workers at site?
Is fall protection in place for work over
2 meters?
Forms adequately braced or tied to
maintain shape and position?
Ground Prepping done properly?
Form Panels built as per design?
Thread
Riser
Pitch & slope
Are formwork supports checked if they
are intact and not displaced?

56
 Is de-shuttering oil applied to the
formwork material prior to concrete
placement?
Forms effectively secured to the
shoring system?
Shoring system in good condition and
in adequate size?
Shoring rests on firm and uniform
footing?
Are Formwork corners adequately tied
to prevent leakage or bulging and
spreading of concrete?
Lateral bracings provided firmly
supports the forms at all points of
support?
Eccentric loading?
Proper alignment of stair and slab
made as per drawing?
All formwork follows forming layout
and horizontal beams fully bear on
their supports?
Formwork carefully stripped and not
dropped and not damaged?
Nails and sharp fixings removed before
stacking in the components?
After stripping the formwork, is Dust,
dirt, & stubborn bits of concrete or
grout removed?
Damaged forms found?
Are all formwork materials stored with
respective Storage area protected
from rain and moisture and well
ventilated?
B) Concrete Casting
Proper grade of concrete used?
Proper size of aggregate used?
Proper water cement ratio used?

57
 Segregation of concrete allowed?
Are concreters working safely?
Is de-shuttering oil applied to
shuttering material prior to concrete
placement?
Is the level up to which concreting is to
be done marked?
Is reinforcement cover checked?
Are formwork supports checked if they
are intact and not displaced?
Is the reinforcement checked if it is as
per the structural drawing?
Are the side supports proper to
maintain the position & verticality of
stair shuttering?
Is slump test taken if concreting is
done with ready mix concrete?
Is the availability of either vibrator or
labor for tamping checked?
Is the concrete filled up to marked
level?
Concrete subjected to any disturbance
within 24 hours after compaction?
Junctions of columns, beams, slabs &
stairs checked if they are watertight?
Was the space below the stringer form
checked during concreting to ensure
the tightness of the form work?
Proper Curing of stair done? (for 7 to
10 days)?
Proper finishing of concrete done as
per design?

Supervisors full name:

Signature:
Date:
Company stamp:

58
Conclusion
Quality achievement is not an easy outcome or an accident; it is the product of
determined effort. The supervisor or the PD/PE is the key person who must play an
important role to get the work done true to the standards and specifications so as to
ensure desired quality of work. The contractor is obligated under the contract for
testing of the quality of work to ensure compliance as stipulated in the specifications.
It is the standard practice for the engineers site staff to supervise and witness such
testing of the works. However, the site engineer should also carry out some testing
separately, for the purpose of validation of tests done by the contractor as well as for
the auditing purposes.

Recommendation
We recommend that, there is difference between the theoretical and practical work
done. As the scope of understanding will be much more when practical work is done.
As we get more knowledge in such a situation where we have great experience doing
the practical work. In this project, we have understood how inspection checklists can
be matched are with the actual site woks. But we found some works difficult to
execute perfectly as listed in the checklist.

59
List of Appendices
Appendix 1: quality assuring
Test Parameter
Compressive Strength
Water/Cement Ratio
Slump Test
Test Method According to: Minimum QC
Testing Frequency
by Contractor
ASTM C39 Preliminary testing
of mix design; test at
28 days
Preliminary testing
of mix design
ASTM C143 1 per batch prior to
pouring concrete

Appendix 2: construction defects (relating with FIDIC clauses)

Defective performance/execution of the Contract due to workmanship &
materials FIDIC Clause 4.1 & Clause 7.1
Defects due to delaying FIDIC Clause 8.7
Details of Workmanship & Equipment FIDIC Clause 6.10
Defects in Setting out FIDIC Clause 4.7(a)

Appendix 3: Abbreviations & Acronyms

QC Quality control
ROI Return On Investment
PE Professional Engineer
FDD Field Dry Density
OMC Optimum Moisture Content
FIDIC Federation International Des Ingenieurs-Conseils

60