Jurisdiction(s):
United Kingdom

Key definition

Force majeure definition

What does Force majeure mean? Force majeure describes a contractual mechanism allocating the risk of events beyond a party’s reasonable control that prevent, hinder or delay performance (for example, natural disasters, war, epidemics/pandemics, strikes, or government action). It is not a free‑standing legal doctrine in England & Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland or Ireland; its effect depends entirely on the wording of a force majeure clause, which courts interpret strictly by reference to case law rather than any statutory definition. Typical clauses list specified events plus a catch‑all, require prompt notice and reasonable mitigation, and provide relief from breach (suspension or an extension of time)....

Force majeure in UK contract law: leading cases on sanctions, COVID-19, Brexit and ‘Act of God’; clause construction, reasonable endeavours, causation and payment obligations

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Practice notes

Whether a party can successfully rely on a Force majeure clause hinges on the exact language used, the deal’s commercial setting and background, and the particular facts surrounding the asserted Force Majeure Event and the alleged hindrance to contractual performance. For more detailed guidance, see Practice Notes: • Force majeure—consequences and contract discharge • Force majeure clause analysis—a practical guide. There is, however, some general direction that can be taken from the authorities, with the principal ones outlined below. For commentary on the doctrine of Frustration, often examined alongside force majeure, see Practice Note: Discharge by frustration. ‘Acts of God’ decisions are listed below...

Case details and analysis

Nature of dispute, key issues considered; Event; Result
RTI Ltd (Respondent) v MUR Shipping BV (Appellant), 15 May 2024, Supreme Court, [2024] UKSC 18
News Analysis: LNB News 15/05/2024 92—Supreme Court confirms that refusing non-contractual performance did not amount to a failure to use reasonable endeavours (RTI Ltd v MUR Shipping BV)
Force majeure clauses and reasonable endeavours: the central question on appeal was whether the obligation to use reasonable endeavours (as stipulated in the force majeure clause)...

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Web page updated on 21/05/2026

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