What does substantial completion signify in a construction project?

• A. Substantial completion marks the project is fully finished and all defects must be corrected
• B. Substantial completion marks the start of construction
• C. Substantial completion is when the owner can occupy the space
• D. Substantial completion is the architect's final sign-off on drawings

Answer: (C)

Substantial completion shows the project is sufficiently complete for its intended use, allowing the owner to occupy and use the space. At this stage, remaining items are typically minor and handled on a punch list, but they don’t block occupancy. This milestone also often triggers changes in responsibility, insurance, warranties, and certain payments. It is not the moment every defect is fixed, not the start of construction, and not the architect’s final sign-off on drawings.