NEC – Quantity Surveyor Blog

Retention in Construction Contracts: Percentages, Release Mechanics and Avoiding Disputes

Illustration of a construction contract beside a stack of coins held back by a padlock and chain, representing retention money in construction contracts

What retention actually protects, typical percentages and release mechanics under JCT, NEC4 and FIDIC, where retention disputes happen, the UK’s proposed 2026 retention ban, and Australia’s trust account model.

NEC vs JCT vs FIDIC: Comparing the Major Construction Contract Forms

Three overlapping contract documents with a compass and ruler, symbolising NEC, JCT and FIDIC construction contract forms

NEC, JCT and FIDIC allocate risk, handle time and money claims, and resolve disputes very differently. A practical QS comparison of all three major construction contract suites.