Statutory approvals shouldn’t dictate your project schedule!
In EPC projects, one trap we see repeatedly is tying your project timeline directly to statutory approvals. It sounds logical—you can’t start construction without them—but in reality, it often creates hidden costs, stress, and disputes.
Here’s why it’s risky:
⏳ Delays = Penalties: Approvals often take longer than planned. Schedules tied to them can trigger liquidated damages or contractual penalties.
💸 Idle Resources: Teams, equipment, and materials sit idle, burning budget while waiting.
⚖️ Disputes & Finger-Pointing: Blurred responsibilities lead to arguments, claims, and legal costs.
📉 Credibility & Morale Impact: Repeated slippages erode client trust and affect team morale, impacting future projects.
Better approach:
✅ Treat approvals as external milestones, not internal deliverables.
✅ Build your schedule around expected approval timelines, with buffers for delays.
✅ Finalize completion dates only after approvals are secured.
✅ Communicate clearly what’s in your control—and what isn’t.
Planning around approvals keeps your schedule realistic, your team productive, and your client relationships strong. A small mindset shift can save time, money, and headaches.