A STUDY ON THEEFFECT OF CHANGE IN BUILDING COST IN PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA

This study investigated the change in building costs in Plateau State, Nigeria, spanning from 2016 to 2025, with the aim of understanding the factors influencing these change and their implications for society. The research objectives include assessing the causes of changes in building material costs, evaluating the societal impact of these change, and identifying the effect of inflation rates on building expenses. By focusing on registered construction professionals, the study seeks to provide insights that can inform decision-making and policy development within the construction sector. Utilizing a quantitative research design, primary data were collected through structured questionnaires distributed to 169 construction professionals in Plateau State. The responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including means and standard deviations, to assess the impact of various factors on building costs. Findings indicate that factors such as the availability of materials, government policies, demand and supply dynamics, and transportation costs significantly influence building expenses. The study reveals that rising material costs notably affect housing affordability and contribute to increased poverty levels among low- and middle-income families. In conclusion, the research underscores the interconnectedness of material availability, governmental policies, inflation rates, and societal impacts concerning building costs. Recommendations include the need for policymakers to implement supportive regulatory frameworks that stabilize material costs, facilitate better supply chain management, and enhance housing accessibility. Furthermore, stakeholders in the construction industry are encouraged to adopt proactive strategies to address inflation's effects and explore innovative methods for maintaining affordable housing options. This study contributes valuable insights to the understanding of construction economics in Plateau State and highlights pathways for future research.