{"links":{"self":"https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/762276.json"},"data":{"type":"petition","id":762276,"attributes":{"action":"Legally prohibit retention clauses in construction contracts.","background":"We want legislative change to prohibit retention clauses in construction contracts. I believe making such retention practices unlawful can create a fairer marketplace where contractors are paid in full and on time, removing the financial burden and uncertainty that I feel plagues the industry.","additional_details":"In my work as a construction dispute resolution professional, I have seen first-hand how retention clauses in construction contracts can be exploited. I see these clauses being misused to withhold payment from contractors for unsubstantiated reasons.\r\n\r\nRetention clauses are intended to ensure the quality of work by holding back a portion of payment, but in my experience have become tools for larger companies to exert undue pressure on smaller contractors.\r\n","committee_note":"","state":"open","signature_count":76,"created_at":"2026-02-23T19:11:32.940Z","updated_at":"2026-04-27T09:48:00.000Z","rejected_at":null,"opened_at":"2026-04-15T14:03:40.449Z","closed_at":null,"moderation_threshold_reached_at":"2026-02-24T07:35:20.000Z","response_threshold_reached_at":null,"government_response_at":null,"debate_threshold_reached_at":null,"scheduled_debate_date":null,"debate_outcome_at":null,"creator_name":"Callum Smith","rejection":null,"government_response":null,"debate":null,"departments":[{"acronym":"BT","name":"Department for Business and 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