Notice of Intent to Perform
What a Notice of Intent to Perform Is and When it Applies
Why issuing a clear Notice of Intent to Perform matters
Issuing a timely notice documents intent, creates a record of remedial efforts, and can preserve contractual or statutory rights. A clear notice often prevents escalation to termination or litigation and can alter cure deadlines or dispute-resolution timelines under the contract.
Who typically prepares and receives this notice
The notice is routinely prepared by contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, or their counsel when performance is contested or at risk.
- Contractors and subcontractors preparing to cure performance issues and avoid termination or liquidated damages.
- Procurement officers and contract managers who must document receipt and respond within contractual cure periods.
- Legal counsel advising parties on rights, obligations, and potential dispute-resolution steps.
Recipients should treat the notice as a formal contractual communication and follow contractual response procedures and applicable law.
Step-by-step: drafting a compliant Notice of Intent to Perform
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01Identify the contract: Reference the exact contract or PO and clause relevant to cure or performance.
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02State intent clearly: Use concise language: 'Notice of Intent to Perform' and describe actions to cure.
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03Set a timeline: Provide specific dates for commencement and expected completion.
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04Sign and deliver: Have an authorized signer execute and follow contract delivery rules.
Where to send the notice and how it travels
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Contracting Officer: Send to the address or email designated in the contract's notice provision.
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Legal Department: Copy in-house counsel when the contract requires written legal communications.
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Registered Agent: For corporate parties, use the agent for formal service if required.
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Electronic Delivery: Use acknowledged delivery methods per the contract (e-mail with read receipt, certified mail, courier).
Configuring an online workflow for notices
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Notice Template | Upload standard template with locked core fields |
| Signer Roles | Assign authorized signers and backup signers |
| Authentication | Use at least email link; consider SMS code or ID verification |
| Retention | Automatically store signed copy and audit trail |
Digital signing and file-handling considerations
Choose a platform that supports legal e-signature frameworks and preserves audit trails.
- Authentication Options: Email link, SMS code, KBA
- Audit Trail: IP, timestamp, and action log
- File Formats: PDF or DOCX preferred
Ensure the chosen solution can export a tamper-evident PDF and retain metadata to meet ESIGN/UETA record reproduction requirements.
Select eSignature vendor comparison for Notice of Intent to Perform workflows
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies | Varies | Varies |
Common mistakes to avoid when preparing the notice
- Using imprecise contract references or failing to cite the exact clause can render a notice ambiguous and invite a procedural objection.
- Omitting the effective date or using inconsistent date formats can create disputes over cure windows and response deadlines.
- Sending the notice to the wrong contract contact or via an unauthorized channel may be treated as deficient delivery.
- Failing to authorize the signer or lacking a signature block can cause the recipient to refuse acknowledgment of the notice.
Potential risks and consequences of an incorrect notice
Practical tips for accurate, defensible notices
Real-world examples of how notices are used
Construction Cure Notice
A general contractor notifies the owner of defects in installation and proposes a corrective schedule with start and finish dates to avoid contract termination.
- The contractor proposes a three-week remediation plan with daily progress reports.
- The documented plan and signed receipt by the owner preserved the contractor’s right to cure and avoided costly delay claims by creating a definitive remediation record.
Procurement Service Recovery
A vendor provides a notice after a service outage, outlining corrective actions and a timeline to resume SLA compliance.
- The vendor commits to specific staffing and testing steps.
- The formal notice triggered the contract’s cure period and led to an agreed remediation addendum rather than immediate termination, limiting financial exposure for both parties.
Typical timelines and response expectations
Immediate Acknowledgment:
Recipient should acknowledge receipt within 24–48 hours when practical
Cure Period:
Common cure windows range from 7 to 30 days depending on contract terms
Start of Remediation:
Curing party should begin work within the period stated in the notice
Progress Reporting:
Interim updates are typically required weekly or at agreed milestones
Escalation:
If uncured, the non-breaching party may pursue termination or damages per contract
Frequently asked questions about Notices of Intent to Perform
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Can a notice be signed electronically?
Yes. Electronic signatures are generally valid under the federal ESIGN Act (15 U.S.C. ch. 96) and UETA where adopted. Ensure the method demonstrates signer intent, provides attribution, and allows record retention for reproduction.
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What if the contract requires notarized notices?
If the contract or state law requires notarization, obtain an in-person notary or remote online notarization where allowed. Follow the notary requirements of the applicable state to avoid defective delivery.
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Is a receipt required to make the notice effective?
Effectiveness is governed by the contract's notice clause—some specify delivery methods or receipt rules. If the clause requires actual receipt, obtain acknowledgement; if it uses deemed delivery (e.g., mailed by certified post), follow that procedure.
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Who must sign the notice?
An authorized representative with authority under the contract should sign. For corporations, that typically means an officer or delegated agent; for sole proprietors, the owner. Lack of authority can render the notice defective.
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Can the notice be withdrawn or revised?
Yes, a party may send a revised or withdrawn notice, but both parties should document the change. Withdrawal does not erase prior events or toll statutory periods unless the recipient agrees.
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What to do if the recipient disputes the notice?
Preserve all records, engage contract counsel, and follow contractual dispute-resolution provisions. Promptly provide supporting evidence of remediation efforts and seek an agreed resolution to avoid escalation.