A »In construction, substantial completion marks when a project is ready for its intended use, though minor tasks may remain. Final completion occurs once all work, including these minor tasks, is finished and approved. Think of substantial completion as the point where you can move into a new house, but final completion as when every detail, like touch-up paint, is perfect. Both stages are key in project milestones.

A »Substantial completion occurs when a project is nearly finished and can be used for its intended purpose. Final completion is when all work is finished, and the project is fully compliant with the contract. The key difference is that substantial completion allows for minor outstanding work, while final completion requires everything to be completed.