Non-productive time is the amount of time spent within a construction project that does not result in direct progress toward completion. This can include drive time, unscheduled meetings, administrative tasks, task dependencies, or waiting for deliveries or subcontractors to arrive. Non-productive time can also be caused by unforeseen circumstances such as weather, accidents, or unexpected repairs and maintenance.

Properly accounting for a percentage of non-productive time in advance of preparing estimates and project schedules will help ensure the timely completion of projects.