Certificate of Substantial Completion - 280

ConsensusDocs 280 is a standardized administrative form used to officially document the date of substantial completion of a construction project—or a designated portion of the work. Substantial completion occurs when the work is sufficiently finished in accordance with the contract documents, allowing the Owner to make unscheduled beneficial use of the project.

This form plays a critical role in project closeout, requiring signatures from both the Constructor (which could be a builder, general contractor, design-builder, or construction manager) and the Owner. By signing the document, both parties formally acknowledge that the project (or specified part of it) has reached substantial completion status.

One of the most important contractual triggers associated with this form is the release of retrieval—a withheld portion of the contract payment—which is executed in accordance with the terms of the main agreement. This ensures proper financial handling and marks a key step toward final project completion.

Key Features of ConsensusDocs 280:

• Establishes official substantial completion date
• Enables Owner to begin using the project or designated section
• Triggers release of retainage as per contract terms
• Requires joint signature from both Constructor and Owner
• Lists outstanding items to be completed or corrected before final completion

The document also includes space to identify any remaining items or deficiencies, often referred to as a punch list, which are to be addressed post-substantial completion. This promotes transparency and ensures that the final steps of construction are clearly understood and documented.

By using ConsensusDocs 280, construction teams can streamline the closeout process, avoid payment disputes, and maintain clear communication regarding the project’s status. This form supports industry best practices and helps ensure a smooth transition to Owner occupancy or use.