Track the retention money they're holding back, and when you get it.
For sub-contractors and small firms on jobs where 3% or 5% is withheld until after completion. Work out the amount, the release dates, and whether they're in breach.
Sound familiar?
- “They've held 5% for a year and now they're trying to hang onto it because of a snag they never raised.”
- “I've got three jobs with retention from three different clients. I can't track any of it.”
- “Practical completion was six months ago and they're still sitting on my money.”
- “I don't really know what retention is or why they're allowed to hold it.”
What this tool does
Calculates the retention held per job, the expected release date at practical completion, the second release at the end of the defects period, and flags any amount that's past due.
Industry standard is 3-5%. Default is 5%.
Typically 12 months.
What the law actually says
- •Retention is a contractual device, not a statutory one. It's only valid if your contract expressly provides for it.
- •Most UK construction contracts release half at practical completion and half at the end of the defects liability period.
- •Retention money that's past its release date is an overdue debt. You can apply late-payment interest and compensation fees on it.
What to do next
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