Retention money — holding back payment until the work is proven
The short answer: a retention (commonly 5–10% of the contract price) held until snagging is complete is the single cheapest protection in home building work. Set it in writing before the contract starts; releasing it is your leverage.
REVIEWED BY: Sean McNamara on 2026-09-03
How to structure it
The contract note says: "Final payment of £X (10% retention) due 14 days after completion of all works and rectification of the snag list." That is normal and professional builders expect it — resistance to a retention is itself a screening signal (checking a builder).
If the builder demands it early
Stage payments fall due for completed, conforming stages only — the retention is not a stage (the mid-job money demand). Hold your position in writing.
If they walk before finishing
The retention stays yours: it prices the risk that has now happened. Add completion costs to your schedule of loss and run the money-back route map.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Verified 2026-09-03.
Preparing a claim? EvidenceCanvas (Casewright) helps you organise your evidence and draft pre-action documents for the small claims track. It is not a law firm and does not give legal advice.
Reviewed by Sean McNamara · 2026-09-03 · Independent information directory — not legal advice.