Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Performance Bond • Bid Bond • Payment Bond

Substantial Completion

Term from Contracting industry explained for recruiters

Substantial Completion is an important milestone in construction projects when the work is complete enough for the owner to use the building or facility for its intended purpose. Think of it like buying a new house - you can move in even if there are still some minor things to fix, like touch-up paint or adjusting cabinet doors. In construction terms, this means the major work is done, safety systems are working, and only small items (called "punch list items") remain. This concept is important because it often triggers important contract events like final payments, warranty periods, and when the owner can start using the space.

Examples in Resumes

Managed 5 commercial projects from groundbreaking to Substantial Completion

Achieved Substantial Completion on $10M hospital renovation ahead of schedule

Coordinated with architects and owners to determine Substantial Completion status on multiple projects

Typical job title: "Construction Project Managers"

Also try searching for:

Construction Manager Project Superintendent Site Manager Construction Supervisor Project Director General Contractor Construction Project Lead

Where to Find Construction Project Managers

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle disputes about Substantial Completion status with owners?

Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss their experience in documentation, negotiation, and resolution strategies. They should mention the importance of clear contract terms, proper documentation, and maintaining good client relationships while protecting the contractor's interests.

Q: How do you manage the transition from Substantial Completion to Final Completion?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process for organizing punch list completion, managing subcontractors, coordinating final inspections, and ensuring all contract requirements are met while maintaining the project schedule and budget.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What documentation is required for Substantial Completion?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list key documents like certificates, warranties, operating manuals, inspection reports, and occupancy permits, explaining why each is important.

Q: How do you prepare a punch list and manage its completion?

Expected Answer: Should explain their method for creating detailed lists, tracking completion, coordinating with subcontractors, and ensuring quality standards are met.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is Substantial Completion and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding that it's when the project is usable for its intended purpose, and explain its significance for payment schedules and warranty periods.

Q: What types of items typically appear on a punch list?

Expected Answer: Should be able to give examples of common punch list items like paint touch-ups, adjusting hardware, completing cleanup, and minor repairs.