Oliver owned a house on the beach and wanted to add a deck so he could enjoy the ocean view. Oliver hired Carl Contractor to build the deck, and Carl started work two days later. Carl purchased $1,000 worth of wood and supplies before starting work on the deck. Five days later, before the project was completed, a hurricane totally destroyed the house and partially built deck. The contract is no longer in effect because it is impossible for Carl to complete it, but Carl may be able to recover damages for ______________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Quantum meruit. The contract between Oliver and Carl is void for impossibility, and no enforceable promises exist. However, under a quasi-contract theory, Carl may be entitled to recover the reasonable value of materials and services rendered.

Oliver Owned a House on the Beach and Wanted to Add