Investigation of Rework Costs and Their Causes on Building Sites in Calabar, Cross River State

Rework, defined as the unnecessary effort of redoing construction activities that were incorrectly completed, imposes substantial direct and indirect costs on building projects. This study investigates the causes and financial magnitude of rework on building construction sites in Calabar, Cross River State. A quantitative survey design was adopted, with structured questionnaires administered to 79 quantity surveyors, site engineers, and contractors across 28 active and recently completed projects. Data were supplemented by project cost records where available. Analysis was conducted using relative importance index and descriptive statistics. Findings indicate that design errors and omissions, poor workmanship by unskilled labour, inadequate supervision, and use of substandard materials are the primary causes of rework in Calabar's construction sector. Rework costs were estimated to average between 5% and 11% of total contract value across the sample, with the highest incidences recorded in structural concrete works and internal finishes. The study finds that inadequate pre-construction planning and the absence of formal quality assurance systems amplify rework incidence. Recommendations include the integration of quality management plans into project execution documents, stricter enforcement of material testing requirements, and post-rework incident reviews to identify systemic weaknesses. Quantity surveyors are advised to include provisional rework cost allowances in risk registers during pre-tender estimating. This research contributes to quality cost management knowledge in the South South geopolitical zone. Keywords: rework costs, building construction, Calabar, quality management, cost overrun