Every year defects in the UK construction industry cost at least £1 billion to repair or rebuild. Some of the defects will be the result of poor communication, for example, a poorly detailed drawing, operatives being given incorrect instructions or technical information not being available.

This Good Building Guide gives advice on how communication can be improved to and around a construction site. It is relevant to all trades and work activities on the site. Improvements in communication should result in cost savings and a reduction in defects.

The diverse nature of construction projects means that not all the recommendations will be applicable to all projects and all sites. Recommendations cover:

1 - The Design phase: producing good drawings and establishing single points of contact

2 - The Construction phase: meetings, technical advice and literature, communication and feedback on site

3 - Sources of further information 6 pages.