Contracts: force majeure
A Practice note that explains the principle of force majeure under English law, what a force majeure clause does, and when it should be used. This note provides guidance on defining force majeure events and examines key concepts such as what constitutes an event beyond a party's reasonable control and the different legal thresholds of being "prevented," "hindered," or "delayed" from performance. The guidance covers the duty to take reasonable steps to mitigate an event's effects, addresses the procedural requirements for invoking a clause, such as giving notice, and outlines the typical effects, including suspension and termination rights. Finally, this note summarises the statutory controls that apply under the Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977 (UCTA).
Already a Practical Law customer? Sign in
Get access to this document with Practical Law
The value of Practical Law
Deliver results and stay ahead with the help of Practical Law's built-in network of legal experts
As a legal professional, your time is a precious resource. Whether you need insights on a market-leading precedent, help navigating a new topic, how-to guidance on the law with an integrated drafting note, or a checklist to help mitigate risk, you can rely on Practical Law.
Practical Law is the only legal know-how solution supported by a team of over 650 full-time global editors who obsessively monitor the law and create resources to help you navigate the unknown and practise more efficiently.
Learn more about Practical Law
Make the most of your time and resources
Jumpstart your work
Easy-to-use tools deliver a great starting point, so you spend less time searching for templates, building presentations, or delving into unfamiliar areas.
Get how-to guidance
Practical resources provide you with in-depth expert knowledge and insights to help you work more efficiently and make informed decisions confidently.
Rely on worldwide expertise
We offer global and comparative content with thousands of assets covering critical legal topics in more than 100 countries, including weekly updates and daily alerts for EU Law.