ABSTRACT
When the architect is of the opinion that practical completion has been achieved and the contractor has provided all the information necessary for the health and safety file and, if the subject matter of the certificate is or contains contractor’s design, the contractor has complied with its obligation to provide as-built drawings, the architect must issue a certificate to that effect, stating the date of practical completion (SBC clause 2.30, IC/ICD clause 2.21, MW clause 2.9 and MWD clause 2.10). Under DB, there is no certificate. When the Works have reached practical completion and the information for the health and safety file and as-built drawings have been provided by the contractor, the employer must issue a written statement to that effect under clause 2.27. It is treated as a matter of fact, not opinion. The contractor is always anxious to obtain this certificate which confers
enormous benefits. It marks the date when:
The rectification period begins. The contractor’s liability for insurance ends. The contractor’s liability for frost damage ends. The employer’s right to deduct full retention ends and half the retention
already held is due for release. Liability for liquidated damages ends. The contractor’s licence to be on the site ends. Regular interim certificates cease. The period of the review of extensions of time begins (not applicable to
MW/MWD).
