A payment certificate is a document that confirms the amount due to a contractor for the work completed during a specific period, based on the terms and conditions of the construction contract. It is issued by the certifier named in the contract, for example the architect or contract administrator under JCT or the Project Manager under NEC, and is normally supported by a valuation prepared by the quantity surveyor. The certificate is typically issued after the progress of the work has been assessed, the contractor’s payment application has been checked for accuracy and compliance with the contract has been confirmed.
The quantity surveyor assesses the work completed, the materials supplied and any other amounts due to the contractor. The payment certificate then shows the value of the work done, taking account of any deductions or retention set out in the contract. This makes sure the contractor is paid fairly for their work, while protecting the client’s interests by confirming that the agreed scope of work has been carried out.
