How to Read a Construction Contract in Cambodia

A clear contract prevents 80% of disputes on Cambodian building sites. Whether you are a homeowner hiring a small contractor or a foreman signing with a developer, these are the clauses to check first.

1. Scope of work

The scope must list every trade the price includes — structure, brickwork, plaster, tiling, electrical, plumbing, paint. If something is not written, assume it is not included.

2. Payment schedule

Cambodian projects usually pay in 4–6 milestones:

• 20% on signing
• 20% at plinth
• 20% at first slab
• 20% at plaster
• 15% at handover
• 5% retention released 3 months later

Never pay more than 25% upfront.

3. Timeline and penalties

The contract should state a start date, completion date, and a liquidated damages amount per day of delay (typically USD 30–100 for a house).

4. Materials specification

Specify brands and grades — for example cement CPAC 42.5, rebar SD50, tile 60×60 Grade A. Vague terms like "good quality" are a red flag.

5. Warranty

Minimum warranty in Cambodia:

• Waterproofing: 2 years
• Structural: 10 years
• Paint and finishes: 1 year

6. Dispute resolution

Prefer arbitration under Cambodian law with venue in Phnom Penh — court cases are slow.

Get help

Need a trustworthy contractor? Search verified profiles on BuildHub or post a project brief and receive quotes.