> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://novacont.gitbook.io/nova-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://novacont.gitbook.io/nova-docs/user-guide/7-day.md).

# The 7-Day Review Process

When a provider submits their deliverables, the contract enters **Under Review** state. At this point, a 7-day window opens during which the client is expected to evaluate the work and take action. This section explains exactly what happens during this period and what each outcome means for both parties.

<figure><img src="/files/bfYEEgPXqSmioyLx1biw" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Why 7 Days?

The review period exists to give clients a reasonable amount of time to evaluate delivered work without allowing funds to remain locked indefinitely. Seven days is long enough to conduct a thorough review in most cases, while short enough to prevent providers from waiting unreasonably for payment they have earned.

This window is enforced by the smart contract itself. It is not a guideline, it is a hard deadline.

### If You Are the Client

Once you see your contract transition to **Under Review**, your 7-day window has begun. You should act promptly.

**What you should do during this period:**

* Open the evidence link submitted by the provider and evaluate it carefully
* Compare the deliverables against the contract description. This is the binding reference
* If anything is unclear, attempt to resolve it directly with the provider before the window closes
* Make your decision before the deadline expires

#### **Your available actions**

*Approve the Work* If the deliverables meet the agreed terms, click **Approve Work** on the contract detail page and confirm the transaction. This immediately releases payment to the provider and closes the contract as **Completed**. Your extra deposit surplus, if applicable, is returned to you at the same moment.

*Open a Dispute* If the deliverables genuinely fail to meet the agreed terms, you may open a dispute before the 7-day window closes. Once a dispute is opened, the review period is paused and the resolution process takes over. The contract transitions to **Disputed** state and funds remain locked until a resolution is reached.

> Disputes should not be used as a delay tactic or as leverage in a renegotiation. Opening a dispute initiates a formal process with real consequences for both parties. Use it only when the provider has genuinely failed to deliver on the agreed terms.

#### **What happens if you do nothing**

If the 7-day window expires without any action from you, the smart contract automatically triggers the timeout mechanism. The full payment is released to the provider without requiring any input from either party. This outcome cannot be reversed.

> If you are aware that you will be unavailable during the review period, resolve the matter before the delivery is submitted or ensure someone you trust can act on your behalf. The contract does not recognize personal circumstances. It only recognizes the deadline.

### If You Are the Provider

Once you have submitted your deliverables, your role during the review period is to wait. You cannot modify your submission, retract it, or accelerate the client's decision.

**What to expect:**

* If the client approves within 7 days, your payment is released immediately and the contract closes as **Completed**
* If the client opens a dispute, the contract enters the resolution process. You will have the opportunity to present your case
* If the client does not respond within 7 days, the timeout mechanism activates automatically

#### **Claiming the Timeout**

If 7 days have passed since your delivery submission and the client has not taken any action, you are entitled to claim your payment through the timeout mechanism. Navigate to your contract detail page and click **Claim Payment**. Confirm the transaction and your funds will be released immediately.

> The timeout is not triggered automatically on your behalf. You must initiate it. However, it can be claimed at any point after the 7-day window expires, with no upper time limit.

### Summary of Possible Outcomes

**Client approves within 7 days** → Payment released to provider. Contract marked Completed. Extra deposit refunded to client if applicable.

**Client opens a dispute within 7 days** → Contract enters Disputed state. Funds remain locked. Resolution process begins.

**Client does not respond within 7 days** → Provider claims timeout. Full payment released to provider. Contract marked Completed.