Jurisdiction(s):
United Kingdom

Related legal acts

Key definition

Quantum definition

What does Quantum mean? Quantum describes the amount of money at issue in a claim, most commonly the sum of damages or compensation to be awarded. It is a descriptive Latin term used across civil litigation rather than a term defined by statute; its assessment is governed by general principles in case law and procedural rules. In practice, courts and practitioners separate “liability” from “quantum”, with a trial or proof on quantum where fault is admitted or established. Determining quantum involves evidence on heads of loss, causation, mitigation and interest, often with expert reports (for example, medical, actuarial or accountancy). Typical contexts include contract, tort/delict,...

Quantum meruit in construction: when claims arise (including letters of intent) and how courts assess a reasonable sum and unjust enrichment

Published by a LexisNexis Construction expert

Practice notes

This Practice Note examines what Quantum meruit means, the situations most likely to give rise to a quantum meruit Claim within a construction project, and how the court may appraise such a claim and decide what counts as a ‘reasonable sum’. See also, more generally, Practice Note: Unjust enrichment and contract claims—failure of basis and quantum meruit. It addresses when such claims commonly occur on projects and the court’s approach to fixing a reasonable figure. All within the construction context.

What is quantum meruit?

The phrase ‘quantum meruit’ translates as ‘as much as he has earned’. A quantum meruit claim is therefore a demand for a reasonable payment—ie the amount the party is fairly entitled to, having regard to the work or services it has provided.

When does a quantum meruit claim arise?

A claim founded on quantum meruit will usually stem from a circumstance that, for one reason or another, leaves the sum due to the contractor uncertain. In broad terms, pursuing quantum meruit indicates that no contract governs the particular work/services undertaken and for which recompense is sought—even if a contract exists between the parties in relation to other linked or associated works...

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Web page updated on 21/05/2026

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