A prestigious residential project in the Franschhoek Valley faced serious turbulence as tensions rose between the client and the professional team. Escalating costs, slow progress on site, and a breakdown in communication brought the development to a standstill.

Challenge

In early 2025, afriPROP was appointed to audit and review a project that had been on site for over a year. Although the scheme itself was not complex, it had endured a rocky start marked by multiple design revisions and frequent changes in key personnel. These early disruptions left a trail of confusion across documentation, scope, and accountability.

Our client had begun to feel sidelined — losing visibility over costs, programme, and progress. Payments had been made without clear justification, and confidence in the project team was eroding. Mounting financial uncertainty and the absence of firm control created mistrust and stalled communication. The open-ended budget and indefinite completion date demanded immediate intervention and disciplined project leadership.

Solution

afriPROP implemented a multi-layered due diligence process, engaging with all stakeholders to identify design inconsistencies, specification conflicts, and procedural bottlenecks. Comprehensive financial audits were conducted to verify that valuations accurately reflected the true value of work completed.

We also re-examined the relationship between the Quantity Surveyor and Contractor, which appeared too close for the client’s comfort, and re-established transparent reporting lines.

afriPROP initiated a structured collaboration framework, facilitating joint workshops aimed at defining an achievable Practical Completion (PC) date. We reinstated budgetary control by assigning the client direct oversight of provisional sums and reinforcing accountability across the team.

While our client was initially hesitant to make firm decisions, afriPROP provided the strategic guidance and confidence needed to act decisively. Our balanced approach ensured that every decision was transparent, fair, and aligned with the project’s overall objectives — restoring equilibrium to the professional relationships on site.

Outcome

With afriPROP’ involvement, the project regained focus, transparency, and momentum. The client once again had a trusted representative with deep construction knowledge, an exceptional eye for detail, and the authority to drive delivery. Communication channels reopened, and decisions began to flow efficiently — supported by renewed trust among all parties.

Summary

A measured and pragmatic approach allowed underlying tensions to be resolved swiftly. By restoring control, transparency, and discipline, afriPROP helped the client regain confidence in both the financial management and delivery of the project. The development has since entered its final completion phase, on a clear path toward successful handover.