Cluster info · Provisional reception

Provisional reception in public procurement: differences with private contracts

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By Edouard Hennin, Provisional reception expert Published on 27 May 2026 Updated on 27 May 2026 6 min read

1. A distinct legal regime

Reception in public procurement does not fall under the Breyne Law but under the Royal Decree of 14 January 2013 establishing the general rules of execution for public procurement. The principles are similar (double reception, warranty, security deposit) but the forms differ.

The special specifications systematically specify the modalities specific to the contract concerned.

2. G1 and G2: the double formalisation

Provisional reception is recorded via the G1 certificate, signed by the public client and the contractor. Effects: release of 50% of the security deposit, start of the warranty period.

The final reception (G2) takes place one year later (sometimes longer depending on the contract), releases the balance of the security deposit and closes the contract.

3. Remedies and timeframes

Remedies in public procurement are strictly framed. Any procedural defect may be challenged before the Council of State (annulment appeal, 60-day deadline). Disputes on the merits fall under the civil court.

Our support service also intervenes in public procurement to frame reservations in compliance with the special specifications and to prepare the reception file.

Questions about reception in public procurement

Does the Breyne Law apply to public procurement?

No, public procurement has its own regime (Royal Decree 14 January 2013). The Breyne Law only applies to private contracts for new housing.

Who can contest the reception in public procurement?

The contracting authority and the contractor. Appeal possible before the Council of State for procedural defects, or before the civil court on the merits.