Implied terms in construction contracts


Published by a ³ÉÈËÓ°Òô Construction expert
Practice notes

Implied terms in construction contracts


Published by a ³ÉÈËÓ°Òô Construction expert

Practice notes
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The implication of terms into a contract is a large and complicated area of law. Sometimes, a particular term will be implied automatically into all contracts of a specific type, either by statute or by Common law. In other cases, implied terms are a way of supplying words which are not in the contract by looking at the original intended meaning of the contract when the parties entered into it, and to make the contract work.

This Practice Note looks at implied terms in the context of construction contracts—for more detailed commentary on implied terms generally and the difference between terms and Representations, see Practice Note: Contract interpretation—express terms in contracts.

What are implied terms?

An implied term is one that has not been expressly agreed between the parties and is therefore not recorded in the contract. It will be implied into the contract for various reasons and in various circumstances—for example if it is necessary to give the contract business efficacy (ie the term is necessary to make the contract work).

It is common for gaps to exist

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Jurisdiction(s):
United Kingdom
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Key definition:
Common law definition
What does Common law mean?

Common law is case law (decisions from courts and tribunals). Case law has also established and developed many principles of law and equity not covered by legislation. Case law is therefore a key source of primary law.

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