General legal information about contract terms in the UK, not legal advice.
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Condition precedent

A condition precedent is something that must happen before a contract, or a particular obligation in it, takes effect — for example obtaining planning permission or a regulatory approval.

Prepared by a retired English qualified solicitor (LLB, LLM) · reviewed · applies across the UK unless stated · how we draft

In more detail

The contract should say who must try to satisfy the condition, by when, and what happens if it is not met.

In Scotland

In Scotland the equivalent concept is usually called a suspensive condition.

Put it into a contract

Be Contract Wise provides very powerful, carefully prepared tools to draft and review simple or complex contracts under the law of England and Wales or Scots law, explaining every clause in plain English.

England & Wales appScotland app

Reviewed 2026-09-24. General legal information, not legal advice.