What is the term for the portion of contract payments withheld from each draw until construction is complete and the lien period has expired?

• A. Retainage
• B. Interest
• C. Contingency
• D. Processing Fee

Answer: (A)

This question tests understanding of retainage in construction contracts. Retainage is the portion of each payment withheld from progress draws and kept back until the project is complete and the lien period has expired. This holdback protects the project owner by ensuring funds are available to cover any outstanding claims and encourages the contractor to finish work and resolve issues. Once the work is completed and the lien period passes (with any required lien waivers), the retainage is released. The other terms don’t fit: interest is a charge on late payments; contingency is reserved for unexpected costs; and a processing fee is simply an administrative charge.