Analysis of the Causes of Rapid Post-construction Breakdown of Plumbing Facilities in Ghana

The quality of plumbing materials in Kumasi the capital of Ashanti Region in Ghana is questionable. Plumbing fittings deteriorate quickly after installation. The study's purpose is to assess the causes of poor plumbing work in the built environment industry in Ghana. The research utilised stratified and purposive sampling methods to solicit respondents’ responses. Data were collected from 10 plumbing teachers, 40 plumbers, 15 suppliers of plumbing materials, and 20 clients through a self-completed questionnaire with a five-point Likert scale. The data were analysed with a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) at a 0.05 level of significance. A post hoc test was used to compare the significant differences that existed among the views of the stakeholders. Findings reveal that Ghana's standard board does not check the quality of plumbing materials before they arrive in the country. There is no association to monitor the inflow of inferior plumbing fittings. The study found that most plumbers are not equipped with knowledge of the basic plumbing principles of vent pipe termination requirements. Most plumbers do not know the reasons for constructing inspection chambers in drainage systems and fixing traps to the sanitary appliances. The study contributes to the literature on the causes of poor plumbing in the built environment industry in Ghana.