Legally prohibit retention clauses in construction contracts.
We want legislative change to prohibit retention clauses in construction contracts. I believe making such retention practices unlawful can create a fairer marketplace where contractors are paid in full and on time, removing the financial burden and uncertainty that I feel plagues the industry.
Signatures
77
signatures
Government response threshold (10,000) · 77/10,000
Debate threshold (100,000) · 77/100,000
- 15 APR 2026Petition opened for signaturesCreated by Callum Smith
Background
In my work as a construction dispute resolution professional, I have seen first-hand how retention clauses in construction contracts can be exploited. I see these clauses being misused to withhold payment from contractors for unsubstantiated reasons.
Retention clauses are intended to ensure the quality of work by holding back a portion of payment, but in my experience have become tools for larger companies to exert undue pressure on smaller contractors.