Multi-utility connections and delays: What does our survey reveal?

Utility connections are a key step in any construction programme and yet feedback persists that this process is fraught with delays.

To find out the extent of these issues, we did some digging through a survey of industry professionals, but what are the responses telling us?

The results, although concerning, are unsurprising, given how customers are talking about their experiences.

Let’s share the headline findings from our survey, with recommendations as to what you can do to avoid problems when connecting utilities. 

Water is the most problematic connection

Some 53% of respondents said that water utility connections had caused them the most problems. Electricity came a reasonably close second with 41%, gas 34%, sewer connections 24%, cable/internet 23% and phone connections 6%.

Utility infrastructure companies need to improve efficiency

Just 46% scored the efficiency of Distribution Network Operators (DNO) as satisfactory, while 38% rated them as average. Only 3% saw utility infrastructure companies as excellent.

Clearly, this is uncomfortable reading for any utility infrastructure company, but it depends on when a consultant has become involved in the process.

If clients can make that call early on, in a timely manner, the more they can take full advantage of having multi-utility siteworks coordinated.

Projects are delivered on time and to budget when there are no unpleasant surprises or delays along the way, so taking action with plenty of notice can make all of the difference.

While a utility infrastructure company is taking care of all on-site connections, clients are free to focus on other aspects of the works.

Delays and interruptions caused by connections are commonplace

All 100% of respondents had experienced delays or interruptions, of some kind, which came as a direct result of utility connection problems.

Most (57%) said they occasionally experience delays or interruptions to their building, but 9% added that they experience such problems frequently.

Whether it’s frequently or infrequently, delays cause monetary and reputational damage. For this to be resolved, it’s important to focus on where potential issues might lie.

By pre-empting the scope of the wider scheme, an understanding can be formed of what proactively is possible.

Almost a third incurred additional costs relating to utility connections

There were 31% of respondents who said they have had to pay extra fees to address utility connection problems.

Unplanned costs, whether that’s directly through paying to resolve unexpected issues or indirectly, through delays, can have significant consequences on the overall budget.

Variations issued by utility providers to the client can also be challenged, because there should always be full transparency in costs. That’s where outside help becomes invaluable.

Connectus Utilities understand that all of the above can be a complex and challenging process, so how can the stress this causes be avoided?

With the right planning, partnerships and decent communication skills, most issues can be avoided in the first place, or overcome reasonably quickly.

There is little need for many of the extensive delays that have been reported here. To avoid utility connection delays, get in touch with Connectus, by clicking here.

Read about how this expertise in managing utilities has saved customers time, money and hassle. See case studies by clicking here.

These survey results were generated via a Pollfish survey of 100 individuals involved in utility connections (UK).