Glossary
Notice clause
Short answer
A notice clause specifies how formal communications under a contract must be given to be valid: in writing or not, to which address or email, by which method, and when the notice counts as received. A notice that ignores the clause can be ineffective even if the other side saw it.
By Pactinel editorial teamReviewed on October 22, 2026
The notice clause is usually near the end of the agreement, under "General" or "Notices". It is easy to skip, but it controls whether your termination, non-renewal or claim is valid.
What it usually contains
- Form: written, signed, sometimes "by an authorized officer".
- Method: courier, registered mail, hand delivery, or email, sometimes email plus a copy by post.
- Addressee: a named role and address, often with a copy to legal counsel.
- Timing: when the notice is treated as received. See deemed receipt.
- Change of details: how a party updates its address.
Example clause
"Notices must be in writing and sent by internationally recognized courier to the address on the signature page, with a copy by email to [email protected]. A notice is deemed received two business days after dispatch."
If the customer emails a non-renewal to its account manager only, it may not satisfy this clause, and the contract may renew.
Practical points
- Keep the current notice address of each counterparty with the contract record.
- Use the exact method the clause names, and keep proof of dispatch.
- Check the notice period together with the method, since delivery time eats into it.
This is general information, not legal advice.