Letter of force majeure event impacting contract: Free template

Letter of force majeure event impacting contract: Free template

Letter of force majeure event impacting contract

When a force majeure event occurs, it can significantly impact a party’s ability to fulfill contractual responsibilities. This letter provides a professional way to notify the other party of the event, explain its effects on the contract, and propose solutions or adjustments to address the situation while maintaining transparency and collaboration.

How to use this letter of force majeure event impacting contract

  • Reference the contract: Clearly identify the contract, including its title, reference number, and the parties involved. Reference the specific force majeure clause, if applicable.
  • Describe the event: Provide a concise explanation of the force majeure event, including its nature, date of occurrence, and why it qualifies under the force majeure clause.
  • Explain the impact: Clearly state how the event affects your ability to fulfill specific contractual obligations. Include timelines, affected deliverables, or actions that are delayed or prevented.
  • Propose adjustments: Suggest potential solutions, such as revised deadlines, alternative arrangements, or temporary suspension of specific obligations.
  • Maintain a professional tone: Ensure the letter reflects respect and a collaborative approach to addressing the challenges caused by the event.
  • Request acknowledgment: Ask the other party to confirm receipt of the letter and provide their input or approval on the proposed adjustments.

Benefits of using a letter of force majeure event impacting contract

This letter template ensures a professional and transparent way to communicate the impact of a force majeure event while maintaining a constructive relationship. Here’s how it helps:

  • Maintain transparency: The letter proactively informs the other party of the event and its impact, reducing misunderstandings.
  • Provide clarity: Clearly outlining the situation and proposed adjustments ensures all parties remain aligned despite the disruption.
  • Demonstrate accountability: Notifying the other party emphasizes your commitment to honoring the contract, even in unforeseen circumstances.
  • Facilitate collaboration: Suggesting solutions fosters a collaborative approach to addressing the challenges posed by the force majeure event.
  • Document the situation: The letter serves as a formal record of the event and the steps taken to address its impact on the contract.

Tips for writing an effective letter of force majeure event impacting contract

  • Be specific: Clearly reference the contract, the force majeure clause, and the obligations affected by the event.
  • Provide details: Describe the event and its effects on the contract in clear and concise terms, avoiding overly technical language.
  • Propose solutions: Offer actionable suggestions to address the situation, such as revised timelines or temporary adjustments.
  • Use professional language: Maintain a respectful and solution-focused tone to preserve the business relationship.
  • Keep it concise: Focus on the key points and avoid unnecessary details or commentary.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: What qualifies as a force majeure event?

A: Common force majeure events include natural disasters, government actions, pandemics, labor strikes, or other unforeseen circumstances beyond a party’s control.

Q: Should I include evidence of the event?

A: Yes, where possible, attach supporting documentation such as news articles, government notices, or internal reports to substantiate your claim.

Q: Who should receive this letter?

A: Send the letter to the other party or parties involved in the contract, typically their legal or operational representatives.

Q: How formal should this letter be?

A: The tone should be professional and respectful, reflecting the seriousness of the situation and your commitment to resolving it.

Q: When should this letter be sent?

A: Notify the other party as soon as the force majeure event is identified and its impact on the contract becomes apparent.

Q: Can this letter propose suspension of the contract?

A: Yes, if the force majeure event makes performance temporarily impossible, you can propose a suspension of specific obligations.

Q: Is this letter suitable for ongoing disruptions?

A: Yes, the letter can address both one-time events and ongoing situations that impact contractual performance.


This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.