Contractual prevention principle
In relation to contracts, the prevention principle dictates that parties to a contract cannot enforce an obligation on the other party if they themselves have prevented that party from performing the obligation.
For example, if a client prevents a contractor from completing works by the date set out in the contract, they cannot claim liquidated and ascertained damages against the contractor. They must either allow an extension of time, or the completion date will be 'at large', that is, the contractor will only be obliged to complete the works within a reasonable time.
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