It depends on the contract: where a timescale is fixed, late approval that delays completion gives an extension of time; where there is no mechanism to extend time for late approval, time can be set at large; and where no timescale is set, a term is implied that approval be given within a reasonable time

It depends on the contract. Where the contract fixes a timescale for approving, accepting or querying the contractor's drawings, that governs, and if the architect or engineer misses it and the completion date is delayed, the contractor is usually entitled to an extension of time. If the contract provides no mechanism to extend time for late approval, the delay is the employer's own and time can be set at large, so the contractor need only complete within a reasonable time and the employer loses its liquidated damages. Where the contract sets no timescale at all, a term will be implied that approval must be given within a reasonable time, applying the stringent modern test for implying terms. What is reasonable is a question of fact, judged by the programme, the rate of progress and the completion date.