Bond guide
Maintenance bonds
A maintenance bond guarantees that defects in workmanship or materials discovered after completion will be corrected.
Where you see them
- Road and paving work
- Site and utility improvements accepted by municipalities
- Roofing and building envelope work
- Landscape and irrigation installations
Underwriting
Because the work is complete, maintenance bonds are often easier to obtain than performance bonds, but sureties still consider your quality record and financial strength.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a maintenance bond last?
The owner sets the term, commonly one or two years after acceptance, though longer periods occur.
Is it separate from the performance bond?
Sometimes. Some performance bonds include warranty obligations; other owners require a separate maintenance bond.
What is a typical amount?
The owner sets it, often a percentage of the contract price.
More bond guides
- Performance bonds for contractors
- Payment bonds
- Bid bonds
- Maintenance bonds
- Supply bonds
- Contractor license and permit bonds
- How to get bonded as a contractor
- Bonding capacity explained
- What determines performance bond cost
- Public works bond laws: the Miller Act and state statutes
- Surety prequalification checklist for contractors
Last updated October 15, 2026 · How we research