# Defect Liability Period (DLP) Meaning

> The defect liability period is the time after handover when a contractor must fix defects free of charge. See an example and how SuperWise handles retention.

Canonical: https://superwise.site/glossary/defect-liability-period/
Last updated: 2026-11-01

The warranty period after handover during which the contractor must repair defects at its own cost.

## What is Defect Liability Period (DLP)?

The Defect Liability Period (DLP) is a set period, typically 6 to 12 months and up to 5 years for structural defects under [RERA](https://superwise.site/glossary/real-estate-regulatory-authority/), that starts at the project's practical completion. During it the principal contractor must return to site and repair any defects, snags or faults that appear, without charging the client.

## Practical example

A commercial tower is handed over on 1 January 2026 with a 12-month DLP. In August 2026 the client finds serious water leakage from the terrace and cracks in the basement plaster. The contractor must send a team to waterproof the terrace and re-plaster the basement at its own cost before the DLP ends.

## In SuperWise

In SuperWise a [work order](https://superwise.site/glossary/work-order/) carries a retention percentage, and each [RA bill](https://superwise.site/glossary/running-account-bill/) deducts that share as a retention deduction. Retention is released at contract completion or at the end of the defects liability period. A defect found in the period can be logged as a site issue, assigned to the responsible organisation with a target closure date.

[RA bill software](https://superwise.site/features/ra-bill-certification/)

## Related terms

- [Handover (Possession)](https://superwise.site/glossary/handover-possession/)
- [Punch List (Snag List)](https://superwise.site/glossary/punch-list/)
- [Running Account bill (RA bill)](https://superwise.site/glossary/running-account-bill/)
- [Work Order (WO)](https://superwise.site/glossary/work-order/)

## Related
- [Handover (Possession)](https://superwise.site/glossary/handover-possession/)
- [Punch List (Snag List)](https://superwise.site/glossary/punch-list/)
- [Running Account bill (RA bill)](https://superwise.site/glossary/running-account-bill/)
- [Work Order (WO)](https://superwise.site/glossary/work-order/)
- [RA bill software](https://superwise.site/features/ra-bill-certification/)