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Substantial Completion Timeline Calculator

Substantial completion (SCT) is the contractual milestone when owner can occupy. This calculator projects SCT based on original schedule and known delays.

Projected duration (months)

1 yr 7 mo

Original duration (months)

1 yr 6 mo

Total delay days

30

% over original

5.48%

How the math works

Projected duration = original + all delays. Weather + force majeure are excused; owner delays are excused. GC-caused delays are LD-triggering.

Track delay days by cause. Disputes arise over categorization. Photos, weather records, and written notices are essential documentation.

How to Use

  1. Enter project start date (months from now).
  2. Enter original duration (months).
  3. Enter weather/force-majeure delay (days).
  4. Enter owner-caused delay (days).
  5. Read projected SCT.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is substantial completion?

Point where work is complete enough that owner can occupy/use for intended purpose, even if punch list items remain. SCT triggers warranty, retainage reduction, and LD stop.

Why not full completion?

Full completion waits for punch list (minor items — touch-ups, adjustments). Punch list usually 30-90 days post-SCT. SCT is the commercially meaningful milestone.

Who declares SCT?

Architect, per contract. Owner review and acceptance. If dispute, AIA process triggers architect certification. Plan for 60-90 day architect review before calling SCT.

Who owns this risk — sponsor or lender?

Construction risks are typically shared: hard-cost overrun owned by sponsor (via completion guaranty), soft-cost and delay risks shared per contract, force-majeure excused but bears owner carry cost. Document risk ownership in the loan agreement and GC contract before closing. Disputes get expensive when roles are unclear. Institutional deals spell out every allocation in writing.

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