Understanding Practical Completion

Practical completion is a key point in building projects as it marks the point at which the contractor completes contractual obligations, retention funds are released and when the works can be handed over to the client for their intended purpose.

Main topics

• Why does it matter?
• When does practical completion occur?
• What about:
  • occupation
  • documentation
  • liquidated damages
  • delay costs
  • snagging
  • rectification period.

Richard Mills FRICS, FCIArb is a solicitor and non-practiciing barrister.