Source: https://www.quantsurv.com/resources/glossary/practical-completion
Content format: Markdown version of the public page.
Content reviewed: 2026-09-30

# Practical completion: definition and example

A contractual milestone for sufficiently complete work, often shortened to PC; its meaning and financial effects depend on your subcontract.

By [Jack Butler-Kettle](<https://www.quantsurv.com/about#who-we-are>) · 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

Practical completion is a milestone assessed under the applicable contract. It is not necessarily the absence of every minor defect, nor the day a subcontractor leaves site. Its significance for possession, retention, defects and delay damages depends on the terms and the required certification or agreement.

Preserve evidence of completion and outstanding items. [Final account dispute prevention](<https://www.quantsurv.com/final-accounts/services/final-account-dispute-prevention>) can help keep completion records aligned with the closing account.

## Worked example

### The facts

A flooring package is available for use, but two minor items remain on a snagging list.

### What happens

1.  The subcontractor checks the completion criteria and who must confirm the milestone.
    
2.  It records the outstanding items and agreed arrangements for addressing them.
    

### What this shows

The milestone is evaluated under the subcontract rather than inferred solely from leaving site or the existence of a snag.