Defects in MEP contract documentation: types, causes and mitigation strategies

Purpose Integration of MEP systems significantly increases the complexity of construction projects in multiple ways. One of the most critical sources of this complexity arises from defects in MEP contract documentation. Furthermore, it has been evident that MEP contract documentation has been a major cause for many disputes. Hence, the purpose of this study is to investigate how to manage the MEP contract documentation defects to minimise the disputes in MEP works in construction projects. Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a qualitative research approach, using a comprehensive literature review alongside semi-structured interviews. The interviews were conducted in two rounds following a Delphi technique to ensure expert consensus and iterative refinement of insights. The empirical data obtained from the interviews were analysed using code-based content analysis, enabling a structured interpretation of recurring themes and patterns. Findings The findings of this study revealed 12 MEP contract documentation defects, 8 disputes arise due to MEP contract documentation defects, 29 causes for defects and 15 strategies to mitigate the causes of defects. Furthermore, the study provides an explicit mapping between defects, causes and strategies to mitigate the causes of defects. Originality/value This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by establishing a benchmark focused on defects in MEP contract documentation, the disputes arising from these defects, their underlying causes and strategies to address them. By proposing practical solutions that directly target the root causes of these defects, the study distinguishes itself from prior research.