Deferment of possession
Contracts generally grant the contractor exclusive possession of the site until practical completion when a handover meeting takes place and possession reverts to the client (see handover to client). The contract may state the date for possession of the site by the contractor (sometimes called the 'commencement date'), or, if not, then the site must be handed over to the contractor within a reasonable time after signing of the contract.
Some contracts (such as the JCT Standard Form of Building Contract) will entitle the client to defer giving the contractor possession of the site for a period of up to six weeks unless a shorter period was stipulated in the contract particulars (it is probably unwise to reduce the period). This provision enables the client to defer possession without being in breach of contract.
It is considered that deferment of possession is a positive activity which the employer should signal by giving written notice although that is not expressly stated.
Deferment of possession can be considered a relevant matter, giving rise to the possibility of the contractor claiming an extension of time or loss and expense. However, for such a claim to succeed, the deferment must have a material effect on the regular progress of the works. Obviously, deferment will have an immediate effect on progress, however, it does not extend the contract period, it simply moves it in time with dates for possession and completion which continue to have the same relationship to each other.
If the contractor is given early notice of deferment, they are likely to incur far fewer costs than if the deferment is only notified a few days before start on site. Issues that might be considered include:
- Plant hire.
- The possibility of using operatives elsewhere.
- Delivery dates
- Key dates for sub-contractors
- The possibility of increased costs and interest charges.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
The Grenfell Tower fire, eight years on
A time to pause and reflect as Dubai tower block fire reported just before anniversary.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.
Construction contract awards hit lowest point of 2025
Plummeting for second consecutive month, intensifying concerns for housing and infrastructure goals.
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025
Examining the state of mental health in construction, shedding light on levels of stress, anxiety and depression.