LOI
What is a Letter of Intent in Construction Contracts? Is Letter of Intent a legally binding document?
A Letter of Intent (LoI) in the context of construction is a formal document issued during the pre-contractual phase of a project. It reflects the employer’s intention to enter into a definitive agreement with a contractor and may authorize the commencement of limited preliminary work prior to the execution of the full contract.
While a LoI facilitates early engagement, it is generally not legally binding unless it explicitly states that it is intended to create enforceable obligations. In legal terms, it represents a statement of intent, not a contract, and is typically not enforceable in court unless supported by clear language and conduct.
KEY ELEMENTS OF A BINDING LOI:
(may differ depending on nature of business/transaction)
- Project details and defined scope of work
- Price or payment terms
- Project timelines
- Liability caps
- Conditions precedent (e.g., permits, approvals)
- Dispute resolution mechanism
- Statement of binding intent
- Authorized signatures
CAUTION:
- Avoid commencing work or incurring costs based solely on an LoI unless a formal contract is in place.
Comments
Post a Comment