The construction industry is experiencing a transformative shift with the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies; however, a thorough understanding of the current state and trends in IoT applications within construction remains elusive. To address this gap, this paper conducts a systematic literature review employing bibliographic analysis, co-citation network analysis of keywords, and content analysis with visualization of similarities software. A meticulous analysis of 158 articles from the top construction journals reveals four prominent scenarios of IoT applications in construction: activity-based IoT, equipment-based IoT, material-based IoT, and labor-based IoT. These scenarios emerge as pivotal, garnering the highest references in the reviewed literature. This research not only contributes to the existing knowledge base but also provides a structured framework for comprehending the diverse applications of IoT in construction. By delving into the intricacies of each scenario, this study offers insights into the current trends and gaps in IoT research within the construction domain. The presented framework evaluates the existing landscape, shedding light on the status of research published in construction journals. The systematic literature review methodology ensures a comprehensive and unbiased assessment of the field, facilitating a nuanced understanding of the current state and future directions in IoT research for construction. This work aims to inform and guide future research endeavors, fostering innovation and advancements in construction practices through the effective integration of IoT technologies.