Source: https://www.quantsurv.com/resources/glossary/contra-charge Content format: Markdown version of the public page. Content reviewed: 2026-09-30 # Contra-charge: definition and example A deduction your main contractor makes from your account for costs it says you caused, such as cleaning or putting right defects. By [Jack Butler-Kettle]() · Updated 30 September 2026 Guidance for England and Wales. Check the contract, amendments and facts that apply to your job. ## What it means in practice Read this alongside [section 111 of the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996](). A contra-charge describes a cost asserted against your account, not proof that you owe it. The other party still needs a contractual or other proper basis, evidence of responsibility and a supported amount. Payment-notice requirements can be relevant separately from the merits of the allegation. Request the allegation and calculation item by item. [Contra-charge recovery]() focuses on examining disputed deductions and the records behind them. ## Worked example ### The facts A main contractor deducts £2,000 for alleged cleaning after a flooring package. ### What happens 1. The subcontractor requests dated photographs, labour records and the relevant obligation. 2. It compares those records with its own handover evidence. ### What this shows The charge can be assessed against responsibility and cost, rather than accepted merely because it appears on a statement. ## Sources 1. [Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996, s 111 (Requirement to pay notified sum)](). legislation.gov.uk.