A study of the impact on quality in the recent Maltese construction boom

Abstract

The construction sector has seen a significant surge in building projects for both private and public enterprise in recent years, notably between 2015 and 2020 extending over a larger part of the Maltese islands. However due to the sudden rise, the industry came under investigation following a number of third-party property collapses, on-site accidents and deaths. In response, this research identified a gap in quality through an extensive literature review which sought to compare how the quality of building in Malta evolved during peak development and the expected outcome as a result of this peak. This gap was further supported by an exploratory research approach undertaken in this study. A survey type questionnaire was distributed to industry experts to determine which factors were critical in relating to quality for this sector. Data was analysed using the Kruskal Wallis test and the Chi-Square test for a number of statements regarding quality. A set of recommendations emerged after quantitative and qualitative data analysis was completed. In conclusion, significant aspects emerged, including (i) improved on-site monitoring, (ii) licencing contractors, (iii) greater accountability and training for contractors and their personnel, and (v) implementing extra quality requirements for the local construction sector.