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Common Construction Delays That Prevent Dispensary Openings
An explanation of the most common construction-related delays that prevent dispensaries from opening on time, and why many of them originate before construction even begins.
Article Summary
- Most dispensary delays are procedural, not physical
- Late changes trigger cascading schedule impacts
- Inspection corrections extend timelines significantly
- Many delays originate during planning and design
Overview
Why Dispensary Construction Rarely Moves Linearly
Dispensary construction timelines are often disrupted
not by slow work, but by interruptions.
Approvals, inspections, revisions, and coordination issues
create stop-start conditions that extend schedules.
Understanding these patterns helps prevent them.
Permits
Permitting and Plan Approval Delays
Construction cannot proceed without permits.
Delays often occur when plans require revisions
or when approvals take longer than expected.
These pauses can halt work entirely.
Changes
Mid-Construction Design Changes
Changes introduced after construction begins
often require revised plans and approvals.
Even small changes can ripple through schedules,
forcing rework and reinspection.
Inspections
Inspection Corrections and Rechecks
Failed inspections result in correction lists
that must be addressed before reopening the process.
Scheduling rechecks can add weeks,
especially when multiple agencies are involved.
Coordination
Poor Coordination Between Trades
Dispensary build-outs require precise sequencing.
Misalignment between trades can stall progress
and cause completed work to be undone.
Coordination failures often surface late.
Scope
Unclear or Expanding Project Scope
Ambiguous scope leads to decision paralysis
and disputes during construction.
When responsibilities are unclear,
progress slows while questions are resolved.
Building
Preventing Delays Starts Before Construction
Many delays can be avoided through
disciplined planning, clear documentation,
and experienced coordination.
Construction speed matters less than continuity.
Predictable progress comes from preparation.
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CauseApprovals and revisions
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ImpactStop-start schedules
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RiskCompounding delays
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SolutionEarly clarity