Source: https://www.quantsurv.com/resources/glossary/quantum-meruit
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Content reviewed: 2026-09-30

# Quantum meruit: definition and example

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#who-we-are>) · Updated 30 September 2026

Guidance for England and Wales. Check the contract, amendments and facts that apply to your job.

## What it means in practice

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. [Letter of intent recovery](<https://www.quantsurv.com/no-signed-contract/services/letter-of-intent-recovery>) can help organise the evidence, with specialist advice on the legal basis.

## Worked example

### The facts

A specialist carries out requested work while the parties disagree about whether a price was finally agreed.

### What happens

1.  It gathers the quotation, instructions and relevant correspondence.
    
2.  It obtains advice on the payment basis before valuing the work as a reasonable sum.
    

### What this shows

The absence of a signed document does not automatically establish a quantum meruit claim.