ABSTRACT
In order to achieve completion in sections, the building contract must allow for that to happen. Under JCT and RIBA building contracts, there is special provision for sectional completion if required. That cannot be achieved by simply writing something into the specification or bills of quantities. Considerable thought is necessary before it is decided to break the Works into sections. Separate dates for possession and completion and amounts of liquidated damages must be inserted. Each section will have its own rectification of defects period and certificate of complete of rectification at the end but there will be only one final certificate applicable to the whole contract. Disputes can arise if the employer wishes to rearrange sections of when a delay occurs to one or more sections. Extensions of time are applicable section by section, but that itself can cause problems.
