On private jobs, with a lump sum payment. Payment due at completion, can the owner hold the payment if they "feel" there are punch list items? There is no contract, just a signed proposal accepting the scope of work, the amount and the payment terms. Thank you
A signed proposal accepting the scope of work, the amount, and the payment terms IS a contract. If "completion" not defined in the contract and there are additional items to be completed then the owner is likely correct.