Page 43 - Interactive report Ar Site Practice

2) Certificate Of Practical Completation

INTRODUCTION

The RIBA Plan of Work 2013 suggests that: 'Practical Completion is a contractual term
used in the Building Contract to signify the date on which a project is handed over to
the client. The date triggers a number of contractual mechanisms. Practical completion
is referred to as 'substantial completion' on some forms of contract, particularly in the
United States.

The contract administrator certifies practical completion when all the works

described in the contract have been carried out. Certifying practical completion has
the effect of:

1. Releasing half of the retention (an amount retained from payments due to
the contractor to ensure they complete the works).
2. Ending the contractor's liability for liquidated damages (damages that
become payable to the client in the event that there is a breach of

contract by the contractor - generally by failing to complete the works by
the completion date).
3. Signifying the beginning of the defects liability period.

Documentation that should be issued to the client on certification of practical completion
might include: Practical completion is referred to as 'substantial completion' on some
forms of contract, particularly in the United States.

1. A draft building owner's manual.
2. A building user's guide.
3. The health and safety file.
4. The building log book.
5. A construction stage report.

Once the certificate of practical completion has been issued, the client takes
possession of the works for occupation.