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Building a house or commercial property in Zimbabwe can be an exciting and rewarding experience. But without proper planning and execution, what starts as a dream project can quickly turn into a costly nightmare. In fact, over 45% of building projects in Zimbabwe experience cost overruns or structural issues due to avoidable mistakes (Zimbabwe Building Industry Report, 2025).
Here are the 10 most common building mistakes you should avoid when constructing in Zimbabwe whether you’re in Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, or the growth points.
1. Starting Without Approved Building Plans
Mistake: Building before your plans are approved by the local authority or rural district council.
Why it matters:
Unapproved structures can be demolished, attract fines, or block future resale. In Harare and Chitungwiza, hundreds of illegal structures have been razed in the past 2 years.
Solution: Always get council-approved plans before laying your first brick.
2. Hiring Unqualified or Unregistered Contractors
Mistake: Choosing the cheapest contractor without verifying qualifications or experience.Poor workmanship can lead to:
- Cracks in walls
- Uneven slabs
- Weak roofs or faulty plumbing
Solution: Hire registered contractors and request to see previous work or client references.
3. Underestimating the Budget
Mistake: Starting with insufficient funds or unrealistic cost expectations.Average house construction cost in 2025 (basic 3-bed):
- Urban areas: US$35,000 – $55,000
- Semi-urban/rural: US$20,000 – $30,000
Solution: Work with a quantity surveyor to create a detailed Bill of Quantities (BoQ), and include a 15% contingency buffer.
4. Ignoring Soil Tests and Site Surveys
Mistake: Building on unsuitable or unstable soil without testing.
Consequences: Foundation cracks, waterlogging, or even collapsed walls.
Solution: Invest in a soil test before foundation work especially in areas like Ruwa, Norton, and Glen View where black cotton soil is common.
Soil test cost: US$80 – $150, depending on location.
5. Using Poor-Quality Materials
Mistake: Cutting costs by using substandard cement, bricks, steel, or tiles.
Poor materials often result in:
- Crumbling plaster
- Rusted steel reinforcements
- Damp walls
Property.co.zw construction insights show that homes using low-cost materials need repairs 3–5 years sooner than those with standard-quality inputs.
Solution: Buy materials from reputable suppliers and insist on receipts and certifications.
6. Skipping Structural Engineer Input
Mistake: Relying only on the builder for structural decisions especially for double-storey homes or commercial buildings.
Without proper design load calculations, buildings can crack, sink, or collapse.
Solution: Hire a qualified structural engineer, especially for slabs, beams, and roofing structures.
In 2024, insurance claims due to structural failures rose by 12%, many involving unsupported or overextended beams.
7. Poor Drainage and Water Management
Mistake: Not planning for stormwater, greywater, and wastewater flow.
Improper drainage can lead to:
- Foundation damage
- Mosquito breeding zones
- Water pooling in gardens or garages
Solution: Include French drains, soakaways, and slope grading in your site plan. Work with a plumber to plan both indoor and outdoor water flow.
8. Not Signing a Written Contract
Mistake: Starting work based on verbal agreements with contractors.
Risks: Payment disputes, poor workmanship, unclear timelines.
Solution: Always sign a written contract that outlines:
- Scope of work
- Timeline
- Payment terms
- Penalties for delays
A contract is your legal shield in case of conflict.
9. Overbuilding the Plot (Violating Building Lines)
Mistake: Ignoring setback laws, building too close to roads or neighbours.
Penalties: Demolition orders, blocked title deed processing, resale issues.
Solution: Follow local council guidelines on minimum distances:
- Front boundary: 4–6 metres
- Side and back boundaries: 2–3 metres
In Harare, over 1,200 violations were flagged in 2024 for building outside the permissible footprint.
10. Neglecting Site Security and Safety
Mistake: Leaving tools, cement, and roofing materials unsecured overnight.
Construction sites are frequent targets for theft and vandalism. Losses can reach US$2,000–$10,000 per incident.
Solution:
- Hire night guards
- Fence the site
- Store materials in lockable containers
Final Thoughts: Build Smart, Not Just Big
Whether you're building a starter home in Kuwadzana or a dream house in Helensvale, these common mistakes can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. The key to successful construction in Zimbabwe is simple: plan ahead, hire qualified professionals, follow regulations, and don’t cut corners.
Need Help Finding a Builder or Buying a Plot?
Visit Property.co.zw to:
- Browse serviced stands ready for development
- Connect with registered contractors and architects
- Read buyer guides, renovation tips, and cost calculators
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