Naphtha based waterproofing delays nearly 600 Japan condo repair projects

According to a Nikkei Shimbun article released on June 5th, rising prices and delivery delays for naphtha-based waterproofing materials are disrupting large-scale existing condominium repair projects across Japan, with nearly 60 percent of surveyed repair firms reporting actual or potential schedule delays.

Photo by Atul Vinayak on Unsplash

The Condominium Planned Repair Construction Association, a Tokyo-based industry group made up of condominium repair contractors and related companies, surveyed its member firms from April 3rd to 10th. Eighty-seven companies responded.

Of those, 51 companies said construction schedules had either already been delayed due to longer lead times for building materials or could be delayed in the future. The number of condominium projects affected by schedule disruptions reached 594.

Large-scale condominium repair work in Japan often centers on waterproofing, which is carried out to prevent leaks. Waterproofing materials made using naphtha and other petroleum-derived raw materials have been affected by price increases and longer delivery times, complicating on-site scheduling. 

Condominium repair projects are generally ordered by management associations made up of unit owners and residents. The cost is usually covered by repair reserve funds contributed by condominium owners and others. 

When costs rise due to sudden external factors, contractors may ask to revise construction contract prices. However, obtaining owner approval for such changes can be difficult, particularly when management associations must explain why originally planned repair budgets are no longer sufficient.

Megumi Hayashi, secretary-general of the Condominium Planned Repair Construction Association, said that the situation has not improved since the April survey.

She also warned that schedule delays could create further complications because waterproofing materials and paints must be selected based on the temperature and humidity at the time the work is carried out.

Source:

Nikkei Shimbun (Japanese only; paywalled)