Workmanship In Construction Of Small And Medium Hospitality Enterprises In Nairobi Central Business District

Abstract

Building construction is a complex activity and requires trained manpower at the design stage, approval process, supervision and construction stage. The design of a building commences with a site survey which shows beacons and dimensions of the plot. Poor quality of workmanship makes it difficult for workers to perceive and apply the concepts of quality control and limits of tolerance for building production. This results in poor construction, which may finally lead to building collapse (Ogunsemi, 2002). The objectives of the study was to identify the challenges facing the construction and finishing, to establish causes of poor workmanship in construction and finishing, and to determine strategies of improving construction and finishing of hotels and restaurants in Nairobi. The study considered the total quality management, and competence theories. The population of the study was the registered Small and Medium hotels and restaurants in Nairobi CBD. Primary data was collected using interviews. The data collected related to the challenges facing the construction and finishing of hotels and restaurants in Nairobi, causes and strategies that can be applied to improve construction of hotels and restaurants. Data was analyzed using qualitative analysis. The study concluded that the challenges facing the hotels are mainly internal staining, mold growth and fungal, cracks on building walls, decayed and break-up mortar joints, loose tiles in the restaurants, leaking in the restaurant, and peeling paint, dampness, and finally roof deterioration. The study also concluded that the causes of poor workmanship include poor weather condition, unsuitable construction equipment, poor project management and unclear role of subcontractor. The study recommended that the following strategies can be used to improve construction and finishing workmanship; having regular checks on the structures, use of quality construction materials, having competent construction supervisors, renovation on regular basis, and adequate initial capital for set up, qualified workmanship, engaging honest and experienced contractors, using correct materials, and monitoring the implementing policies by government.