standards of performance
Definition
Standards of performance are the specific requirements written into a contract that describe exactly what counts as doing the job correctly. Think of them as the rulebook everyone agrees to follow before work begins, spelling out the quality, quantity, timing, and methods a party must meet to fulfill their end of the deal. If a dispute arises, these standards become the measuring stick a court uses to decide whether someone held up their end of the bargain.
Example
If you hire a web designer and your contract states the finished site must load in under three seconds and work on all major browsers, those are your standards of performance. When the designer delivers the site, you check it against those exact benchmarks to decide whether the work is complete.
Watch Out
Vague language like 'high quality' or 'professional work' is nearly useless in court, so always define your standards with specific, measurable details.
See which terms appear in your contract?
This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.