5 Proven Strategies to Navigate Permit Delays in Construction: JMG Construction’s Success Formula

Navigating permit delays in construction can be a challenging process, but at JMG Construction, we’ve mastered strategies to keep projects on track. In this post, we’ll share 5 proven strategies to help you navigate permit delays efficiently and ensure your construction projects stay within budget and schedule.

In this blog post, we’ll share how we tackled permit delays, why securing certifications like the DOLE certificate is critical, and how teamwork and a proactive approach helped us stay within budget and on schedule in our ongoing project in Block 9, Lot 5, Lower, Gold City Village, Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental 2-Storey Residential Duplex Apartment Building.

5 Proven Strategies

How JMG Navigate Permit Delays in Construction

01

We Start a Construction Project While Waiting for a Building Permit?

In the construction world, time is money. When our team began working on this project, we made the decision to start the demolition and groundwork while the building permit was still being processed. This approach is not uncommon, especially when initial reviews, such as title verification, geodetic surveys, and structure setbacks, show no red flags.


By the time the footing was completed, and we were moving onto the ground-floor columns and preparing for the second-floor slab and beam framing, everything seemed to be going according to plan. Progress was visible, the client was happy, and we were confident we could complete the project within the specified timeline and budget.

However, in construction, challenges often arise when you least expect them.

Bulldozers and cranes prepare the ground on a construction site while a permit application is in review, demonstrating proactive steps to navigate permit delays.

02

The Permit Hurdle: Delays in the Building Permit Approval Process

While the project moved forward on-site, we ran into a common—but frustrating—issue: delays with the building permit. Our technical drawings submitted to the Office of the Building Official (OBO) required revisions, and the situation became more complex because our architect was too busy to make the necessary corrections promptly. As a result, the permit process stalled.
This delay presented a serious challenge. Without an approved building permit, our project could be halted at any moment, risking potential penalties and significant disruptions to the timeline.

Signage of the office of the building official (obo) in cagayan de oro city mounted on the exterior of a building.

03

The Overlooked Requirement: Securing the DOLE Certificate

Amid the flurry of revisions and resubmissions, we realized we had neglected an essential part of the process: the DOLE certificate.
The DOLE Certificate of Compliance on General Labor Standards is a vital requirement for construction projects in the Philippines. It ensures that all contractors comply with national labor laws and occupational safety standards. Without it, the issuance of a building permit cannot move forward. See the sample copy of the filing and evaluation of CSHP

A young filipino engineer holding a document labeled 'dole certificate' with a regretful expression. In the background, a blurred project manager watches him seriously, in an office with the jmg logo visible.

04

Managing Multiple Priorities | Navigate Permit Delays | How JMG Construction Stayed on Track

While this might have been a make-or-break moment for many construction projects, at JMG Construction, we’re accustomed to managing multiple priorities. As soon as we recognized the oversight, our team sprang into action, securing the DOLE certificate as quickly as possible. Simultaneously, the on-site work continued, with one team handling the construction progress and another focusing on the administrative requirements.

Split-screen showing construction workers on-site with machinery on the left and an administrative team reviewing documents on the right, representing the division of tasks in a construction project.

05

The Importance of Strong Leadership and Teamwork

As a construction company, one of our most important values is that there’s no time for pointing fingers. When problems arise, we focus on finding solutions. As the leader of JMG Construction, I take full responsibility for both the positive and negative outcomes of every project. This mindset allows us to maintain momentum even in the face of adversity.

Thanks to strong leadership and a dedicated team, we were able to keep the project moving forward. More importantly, we stayed within budget and on schedule, despite the delays. The key? Having Plan B ready and ensuring all team members were aligned with the project’s goals.

A construction site at sunrise with cranes and unfinished buildings in the background. In the foreground, organized tools, blueprints, a hard hat, and construction equipment are neatly placed on a desk with the text 'leader's mindset: prioritize organizing your tools' overlaid.

Taking Responsibility and Adapting to Challenges

As the Managing Owner of JMG Construction, I firmly believe that taking responsibility is key to overcoming challenges. Rather than waiting passively and risking further delays, we quickly moved to Plan B. I took charge of ensuring that all required revisions were made promptly, reaching out to other professionals who could assist in correcting the technical drawings. Our goal was simple: address the remarks from OBO and submit the updated documents for second-round approval.

Adaptability is a crucial trait in construction. By acting swiftly, we minimized the delay and kept the project moving forward. However, just as things were looking up, another obstacle emerged—one we had overlooked in our initial planning.

Why is this certificate so important?

  • It protects workers by ensuring that proper labor practices are followed.
  • It ensures worksite safety protocols are in place and regularly monitored.
  • It serves as proof of compliance with national laws, helping prevent delays, fines, or even project cancellations.

Without the DOLE certificate, the OBO could not issue the Order of Payment—a necessary step for obtaining the building permit. This setback was critical, but it wasn’t the end of the road.

Lessons Learned: Why You Shouldn’t Overlook the DOLE Certificate

This experience was a valuable lesson in the importance of planning for the unexpected. The DOLE certificate, while often overlooked, is a critical part of the construction process in the Philippines. Without it, projects can face significant delays or even legal complications.

By securing all necessary certifications and staying compliant with national standards, you not only protect your business from potential fines but also ensure the safety and well-being of your workers. For clients, this means peace of mind, knowing that your project is being handled with the utmost care and professionalism.

At JMG Construction, our ability to overcome challenges, stay flexible, and deliver results is what sets us apart.

Why Choose JMG Construction?

We pride ourselves on delivering top-notch products/services along with unmatched support. With years of experience in the industry, we have built a reputation for excellence and have become the go-to choice for customers who seek the best.

Our experience with this 2-Story Duplex Residential Building taught us the importance of:

Planning for the unexpected and having a backup plan in place,Expertise

Maintaining strong communication with all stakeholders,

Taking full responsibility for every aspect of the project.

Working as a team to overcome obstacles and ensure timely delivery.

Conclusion: Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Every construction project has its challenges, but how you respond to them defines the outcome. At JMG Construction, we take pride in our ability to stay on track, even when faced with delays. Our commitment to excellence, safety, and client satisfaction is what makes us a trusted partner in the construction industry.

If you’re planning a construction project and need a team that knows how to navigate the complexities of permits, certifications, and on-site challenges, contact JMG Construction today. We’ll bring your vision to life with a focus on quality, compliance, and timely delivery.

Location

Block 7, Cambridge Subdivision, Harvard St, Xavier St, Cagayan de Oro, 9000 Misamis Oriental

Email

teamjmg@googlegroups.com

Phone

(+63) 999-619-6855

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