Force Majeure Policy
Effective Date: January 1, 2024 | Last Updated: October 15, 2024
This Force Majeure Policy outlines the terms, conditions, and procedures governing unforeseen events that may impact TimberCraft Pro's ability to perform contractual obligations. This policy applies to all residential, commercial, and custom woodworking contracts executed by TimberCraft Pro.
1. Definition of Force Majeure
Force Majeure refers to unforeseeable, extraordinary events beyond the reasonable control of TimberCraft Pro that prevent, delay, or materially hinder the performance of contractual duties. Such events must not be attributable to negligence, misconduct, or failure to exercise reasonable diligence by TimberCraft Pro or its subcontractors.
2. Covered Circumstances
Events qualifying as Force Majeure under this policy include, but are not limited to:
- Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, wildfires, hurricanes, tornadoes)
- Government mandates, orders, or regulatory changes (including quarantine or lockdowns)
- Pandemics or widespread public health emergencies declared by official health authorities
- Acts of war, terrorism, civil unrest, or sabotage
- Major utility failures or prolonged infrastructure disruptions
- Critical supply chain interruptions affecting specialty lumber, hardware, or finishes
- Industry-wide labor strikes or transportation network failures
3. Notification & Documentation Requirements
In the event of a potential Force Majeure occurrence, TimberCraft Pro will provide written notification to the client within five (5) business days of becoming aware of the event. Notification will include:
- A clear description of the event and its projected impact
- Estimated duration of the disruption
- Steps being taken to mitigate delays
- Revised timeline expectations
All claims under this policy require supporting documentation (government orders, supplier notices, incident reports, etc.) to be maintained and provided upon reasonable request.
4. Impact on Contracts & Timelines
When a valid Force Majeure event occurs:
- Project timelines will be extended proportionally to the duration of the disruption
- No liquidated damages, penalties, or breach claims will apply to delayed milestones
- Both parties will cooperate in good faith to adjust schedules and minimize impact
- Already completed work and stored materials will be protected and secured at no additional cost
5. Mitigation Obligations
TimberCraft Pro remains obligated to exercise reasonable commercial efforts to mitigate the impact of any Force Majeure event. This includes sourcing alternative materials where available, adjusting workflows, deploying backup labor, and communicating proactively with clients, suppliers, and subcontractors.
6. Suspension & Termination Rights
If a Force Majeure event persists beyond sixty (60) consecutive days, either party may elect to:
- Suspend the contract indefinitely until conditions normalize
- Terminate the agreement without penalty
- Request a pro-rata refund for unused deposits and uninstalled materials
Termination decisions will be documented in writing, and all finalized work will be compensated according to the original contract schedule.
7. Insurance & Risk Allocation
TimberCraft Pro maintains comprehensive general liability, builder's risk, and business interruption insurance. While these policies cover property damage and operational losses, they do not override contractual Force Majeure provisions. Clients are strongly advised to secure separate builder's risk or homeowner's insurance to cover materials stored on-site and completed installations.
Legal & Contract Inquiries
For questions regarding this policy, contract modifications, or active Force Majeure claims:
π§ legal@timbercraftpro.com
π (555) 123-4567 ext. 204
π 1247 Oakwood Drive, Suite 4, Springfield, IL 62704
π Business Hours: MonβFri, 8:00 AM β 5:00 PM CST