Force majeure is a clause included in most contracts that relieves a party of its obligation under extreme circumstances - usually unforeseen and unpredictable events that make performing those obligations nearly impossible. Examples would be war, strike, riots, crime, epidemic (pandemic) or other “ Acts of God” that prevent one or both of the parties to the contract from performing under the contract.

With business around the world disrupted due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the spotlight is on force majeure. In particular, the real estate industry has taken notice.