Top 5 Construction Mistakes Zimbabweans Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Building a home is a big investment—and like any major project, it can go wrong if you’re not careful. At Phile Maling Construction, we’ve seen the good, the bad, and the avoidable. So, let’s look at the top 5 mistakes people make when building in Zimbabwe and how you can stay clear of them.
1. Building Without Proper Council Approvals
Many people rush to start construction without getting their building plans approved by the local council. This can lead to:
- Fines or demolition orders
- Inability to connect water, sewer, and ZESA
- Legal headaches if you decide to sell
How to avoid it:
Let a professional handle your plans. All Phile Maling packages include plan drawings and full council submission—we don’t break ground until it’s all approved.
2. Choosing the Cheapest Builder (Instead of the Best One)
We understand—budgets are tight. But hiring unregistered, unqualified builders often leads to:
- Poor workmanship
- Projects that drag on for months or years
- Extra costs fixing mistakes
How to avoid it:
Work with a registered and experienced contractor. At Phile Maling Construction, we’re CIFOZ- registered, with a solid track record and verified projects across the country.
3. Underestimating the True Cost of Building
It’s common for clients to budget based on old or unrealistic rates. Then, halfway through, they’re forced to stop building because:
- Material prices have gone up
- There were unexpected site issues
- They didn’t account for finishes or extras
How to avoid it:
Get a proper quotation before starting. We offer clear construction packages so you always know what to expect, per square meter.
4. Skipping the Foundation Work
Some clients want to “just get started” and skip soil testing or proper foundation depth. The result? Cracks, leaks, and even structural collapse down the line.
How to avoid it:
At Phile Maling, every project starts with solid groundwork. We don’t take shortcuts when it comes to safety and structural strength.
5. Trying to Manage the Project Alone
Coordinating multiple teams—bricklayers, plumbers, electricians, suppliers—can become a nightmare. Miscommunication leads to delays, errors, and finger-pointing.
How to avoid it:
Choose a turnkey contractor who handles everything. With our Construction packages, we manage the project for you—from start to finish.
Final Word: Build Smarter, Not Harder
Every mistake listed here costs money, time, or peace of mind. When you choose the right partnerfrom day one, you avoid these issues completely.
Ready to build the right way? Contact us today for a free site consultation.
13 Monte Carlo Centre, Five Street & 12th Avenue, Bulawayo.
