Decoding force majeure terms in contracts

Theresa mohammed bw 2018

A recent ruling has implications for the drafting and interpretation of force majeure and reasonable endeavours terms

Since restrictions were brought in to tackle the covid-19 pandemic, force majeure provisions have been thrown back into the spotlight. The concept of 鈥渁n act of god鈥, or something which could not have been foreseen, interfering with the parties鈥 ability to perform their obligations under a construction or any other form of contract, has been widely discussed in terms of both when it is triggered and whether more relevant provisions should now be drafted. Now, in light of the developing global sanctions, most notably against Russia since February 2022, the topic of force majeure remains a prominent talking point in both contract negotiations and disputes on live projects.

Towards the end of last year, the Court of Appeal handed down an important decision on the application and interpretation of such provisions. The court鈥檚 findings, together with the practical implications for future and live projects, have implications for the drafting and interpretation of force majeure provisions.

This is PREMIUM content, available to subscribers only

You are not currently logged in. Subscribers may LOGIN here.

to access this story

Gated access promo


A subscription will provide access to the latest industry news, expert analysis & comment from industry leaders,  data and research - including our popular annual league tables. You will receive:

  • Print/digital issues delivered to your door/inbox
  • Unlimited access to building.co.uk including our archive
  • Print/digital supplements
  • Newsletters - unlimited access to the stories behind the headlines

now 

 

Get access to premium content