Who is responsible for determining when a construction project is complete?

The owner or their agent is typically responsible for determining when a construction project is complete. This is because the owner has the final authority and interest in the project’s completion as it must meet their expectations, needs, and the terms laid out in the contract. The completion of a project often involves the owner verifying that all contractual obligations have been fulfilled, ensuring that work meets the agreed-upon specifications and quality standards.

While contractors and project managers play vital roles throughout the construction process, it is ultimately the owner or their designated representative who confirms that the project meets all criteria for completion. This process often includes a final walkthrough and potentially a punch list of any outstanding items that need to be addressed before the project can be considered finished. Local government inspectors may assess the work for compliance with building codes, but their role does not extend to making the final determination of project completion from the owner's perspective. Their involvement is typically more focused on safety and regulatory compliance rather than contractual completion.