When it comes to obtaining building materials, real estate developers often buy globally, not locally. But as the coronavirus spreads across the world, bringing countries to a standstill, the lack of access to overseas supplies is sending jitters through the construction industry.

Delayed so far at large-scale residential and commercial projects have been goods like marble, tile, paving stones, furniture, lighting equipment and elevators — and even models of buildings themselves, workers say.

Warning signs are appearing on multiple fronts. And the setbacks threaten jobs in an industry that employs millions of people. In many cases, no materials means no work, analysts say.

“It’s not like when you build a house and can just go down to a Home Depot and get a different light fixture when you’re short,” said Chris Heger, a vice president of OAC Services, a Seattle firm that manages construction projects. “This stuff is all designed and planned years in advance.”