Source: https://www.quantsurv.com/library/glossary/defects-liability-period
Content format: Markdown version of the public page.
Content reviewed: 2026-10-10

# Defects liability period

A contractual period after completion for addressing defects, also called a rectification period in relevant JCT forms.

by [Jack Butler-Kettle](<https://www.quantsurv.com/about#jack-butler-kettle>) · About 1 min readShare

## Further detail

Read this alongside [NEC guidance on defining and managing defects](<https://www.neccontract.com/news/defining-and-managing-defects-in-ecc-and-liability-for-not-correcting-them>).

The defects or rectification period provides a contractual route for dealing with defects after completion. Its expiry does not necessarily end liability for defective work. Retention release may also depend on making good, certification and payment provisions rather than the passage of time alone.

Record the end date, reported defects and completion evidence. Our [Main-contract and subcontract administration support](<https://www.quantsurv.com/quantity-surveying?service=%2Fquantity-surveying%2Fcontract-management#client-types>) service tracks the agreed procedure; our [Final account preparation and assessment](<https://www.quantsurv.com/quantity-surveying?service=%2Fquantity-surveying%2Ffinal-accounts#client-types>) service reconciles any associated retention release.

## Sources

1.  [Defining and managing defects in ECC and liability for not correcting them (19 June 2023)](<https://www.neccontract.com/news/defining-and-managing-defects-in-ecc-and-liability-for-not-correcting-them>). NEC Contracts.

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