Date of substantial completion
The date when a project or part of it is sufficiently complete for the owner to use it as intended, certified by the architect.
The date of substantial completion indicates when a building can be used for its intended purpose, triggering warranty periods and financial considerations like retainage release and final payments.
Used in a sentence
The date of substantial completion marks when the project is sufficiently complete for occupancy, even if minor work remains.
Stay updated on what’s happening in construction.
Subscribe to Blueprint, º£½Ç´óÉñ’s free construction newsletter, to get content from industry experts delivered straight to your inbox.
Learn MoreLearn more about Date of substantial completion

The MEP Lifecycle: How Contractors Can Benefit from Thinking Ahead
From the beginning of a project, MEP contractors should be thinking about the lifecycle of their systems. Prioritizing the lifecycle early in the process helps MEP trades influence design, select and position the proper equipment, conduct thorough documentation, establish a quality-control cadence, coordinate with facilities teams and even win post-construction maintenance contracts. Paired with sophisticated […]

How to Choose the Best Construction Project Management Software
Effective project management lays the foundation for the success of any construction project. While there’s no shortage of project management software solutions on the market, choosing one custom-tailored for construction projects can make it easier for contractors to complete projects. As the construction industry faces challenges with labor shortages, supply chain issues and managing multiple […]

‘Work-Work Balance’: How PMs Can Fit Tech Adoption Into Daily Duties
Technology is streamlining every aspect of construction, but yielding all the benefits requires thoughtful, strategic adoption — and sometimes, it can feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day. For project managers and other site leaders striving to build their teams’ technological proficiency, successful implementation requires dedicated resources and committing equally to strategic initiatives […]

Construction Framing Inspection Checklists for Safety and Compliance (With Free Template)
Construction uses all kinds of inspections to make sure projects are going to plan. Framing inspections are no different: They judge a building’s frame and components to ensure everything is installed correctly and according to local codes. Inspections are a good tool: They help with the quality control of a new structure. Still, contractors may […]
How can we improve this glossary entry?
By clicking this button, you agree to our Privacy Notice and Terms of Service.