Source: https://www.quantsurv.com/library/glossary/quantum-meruit
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Content reviewed: 2026-10-10

# Quantum meruit

A reasonable payment for work or services where the applicable legal basis permits that form of recovery.

by [Jack Butler-Kettle](<https://www.quantsurv.com/about#jack-butler-kettle>) · About 1 min readShare

## Further detail

Quantum meruit concerns a reasonable payment in circumstances where the law permits that basis. It is not a general way to bypass an unfavourable agreed price. Whether the claim is contractual or restitutionary, and how a reasonable sum should be assessed, depends on the agreement and facts.

Preserve instructions, negotiations and records of the work. [Payment recovery without a signed contract](<https://www.quantsurv.com/claims?service=%2Fno-signed-contract%2Fservices%2Fletter-of-intent-recovery#client-types>) can help organise the evidence, with specialist advice on the legal basis.

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