Risk management in small and micro construction firms undertaking repairs and modernisation of residential houses: a case of India

Abstract

This paper identifies risk factors and suggests their mitigation in small and micro construction firms undertaking repairs and modernisation projects in residential houses. It uses a case study approach with a combination of work breakdown structure and fault tree analysis to identify risk factors in repairs and modernisation projects. Fifty two risk factors have been identified. Risk factors such as damage to household goods during shifting, injury to the labourers during shifting household goods, damage to household goods during packing, damage to household goods during unpacking and accidents during shifting of household goods have been found typical for small to micro construction firms involved in repairs and modernisation of residential houses. The suggested risk treatment reflects the lite version of project management and is validated by discussing with construction professionals and owners of small and micro construction firms. Risk retention, risk sharing and risk prevention are recommended for treatment of risks. This study is qualitative in nature and its scope is limited to Indian context only.