How much retainage can be withheld on a construction project in Washington state?
Last reviewed July 5, 2026
In Washington state, retainage on private projects is capped at 5% of the contract price. For public projects, retainage can also be up to 5%, but certain conditions might allow for lower amounts. Check the specific contract and state laws for details.
Key points
- Retainage capped at 5% for private projects.
- Public projects also allow up to 5% retainage.
- Conditions may vary based on contracts and state laws.
- Check the specific contract for any stipulations.
Retainage is a common practice to ensure project completion, protecting the owner from potential defects or delays. Always review the contract terms and Washington state laws for any variations or specific requirements related to retainage.
How Alloovium helps
Alloovium can help track retainage requirements and compliance for your project.
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General information for US construction professionals — not legal advice. Lien deadlines, retainage caps and notice rules vary by state; verify with the state statute or a construction attorney.