Skilled Labor Shortages in Construction

The skilled labor shortage impacting the construction industry has compounding consequences that negatively impact businesses. These include increased construction defects, more delays and rising costs. In addition, with 6% growth in the construction industry projected through 2030,¹ a limited labor supply threatens to negatively impact quality and productivity.

In 2021, 89% of construction employers reported difficulties finding suitable skilled labor,² and 40% reported project delays due to skilled labor shortages.³

89% of construction firms reported difficulty finding craft workers.
40% of construction firms reported project delays due to skilled labor shortages.

Hiring qualified workers – including carpenters, equipment operators and other tradespersons – is one of the most important steps in managing construction defect risk. A lack of skilled labor can affect workmanship, increasing the likelihood of construction defects and losses. With labor in short supply, how do firms overcome defect risk?

Construction firms are adapting by optimizing their existing workforce, expanding training, reskilling personnel and engaging in open talent ecosystems.³ New materials, technology and manufacturing processes can also help increase the efficiency and profitability of construction projects⁴ as well.

Adapting to current construction industry and skilled labor trends by embracing new technologies, as well as expanding hiring and training processes, can help to capitalize on the industry’s increasing demand and growth. When you pre-qualify potential candidates and implement rigorous certification and/or training protocols, you may help minimize risk and losses due to inadequate or inexperienced labor, preventing construction defect claims down the road.

Learn more about how Travelers can help you protect your business against risks arising from skilled labor shortages with contractor and construction insurance.

Sources
¹ https://www.bls.gov/ooh/construction-and extraction/home.htm?msclkid=a2e787f1aed d11ec84d39a735332fa4a
² https://www.agc.org/news/2021/09/02/construction-workforce-shortages-reach-pre-pandemic-levels-even-coronavirus-0
³ https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/Communications/2020_Outlook_Survey_National.pdf
⁴ https://www.asme.org/topics-resources/content/11-construction-industry-trends-for-2022?msclkid=46c23bddaf8b11ec9cb609346ffdc303