Material retainage
A portion of the agreed-upon contract price for materials that is deliberately withheld until the work is substantially complete to assure that contractor or subcontractor will satisfy its obligations and complete a construction project.
Material retainage is a percentage of payment withheld from contractors or suppliers until project completion to ensure performance and compliance. It provides leverage for project owners to ensure quality standards are met and any deficiencies are addressed before final payment is released.
Used in a sentence
A portion of each payment is held as material retainage until the project is satisfactorily completed.
Synonyms/variation
Retention
Stay updated on what’s happening in construction.
Subscribe to Blueprint, Procore’s free construction newsletter, to get content from industry experts delivered straight to your inbox.
Learn MoreLearn more about Material retainage

Construction Invoice Factoring: A Quick Guide
Construction companies need to maintain consistent cash flow. Projects can take years to complete, and delays and unforeseen events may keep expenses mounting. Adding to this load are typically high upfront costs, like materials, equipment and labor. One way to stay solvent while waiting for clients to make their final payments is construction invoice factoring. This […]

Sales Tax on Construction Materials: Who Pays It and When
Sales tax plays a major role in construction, influencing everything from material costs to contract pricing and compliance requirements. But deciding when and how sales tax on construction work applies isn’t always straightforward. With rules varying by state, contract type and client, even experienced contractors can run into unexpected tax liabilities. Whether submitting a local […]

Empowering Tribal Nations Through Strategic Capital Program Management
Tribal nations are leading significant investments in infrastructure that honor their heritage while simultaneously propelling them into a modern, sustainable future. From healthcare facilities that reduce travel for elders to broadband networks that connect youth to global resources, these projects are more than just construction: They’re investments in self-sufficiency and long-term community well-being. Funding opportunities […]

Construction Tax Deductions: A Quick Guide
Tax deductions offer a lot of opportunity for construction businesses to lower their tax liability, helping to free up cash flow and increase profitability. Because construction projects are so complex, tax deductions in the construction industry are nuanced, but there are many opportunities to use tax deductions for more effective financial management. This article discusses […]
How can we improve this glossary entry?
By clicking this button, you agree to our Privacy Notice and Terms of Service.