Substantial Completion
The contractual milestone at which a project is sufficiently complete that the owner can use it for its intended purpose.
What substantial completion actually means.
Substantial Completion is a contractual milestone separate from "final completion." The owner can occupy and use the space, the certificate of occupancy is typically issued, retainage may be released, and the warranty period begins. Punch-list items remain but don't prevent use. The exact definition is contract-specific and worth defining clearly up front, especially when schedule deadlines (PCS moves, listing dates, lease starts) drive the project.
- AIA A101 — substantial completion definition
- Georgia Building Code — certificate of occupancy issuance
Adjacent definitions.
- Punch List
The list of minor corrective items remaining after substantial completion of a construction project.
See the definition - Notice of Termination (NOT)
A document filed at the county courthouse after project completion that closes out the Notice of Commencement.
See the definition - Design-Build
A single-contract project delivery method where the same contractor handles design, permitting, and construction.
See the definition