Automatic renewal clauses are also called “evergreen clauses.” They're found in many different types of contracts: consumer, commercial, employment, and landlord/tenant are just a few. Black's Law Dictionary defines an evergreen contract as "a contract that renews itself from one term to the next in the absence of contrary notice by one of the parties." Evergreen clauses are not usually called "evergreen" in contracts. To spot an evergreen clause, look for the following words: Term, Duration, Continuation, Termination, Notice period, Renewal, or Extension. Also, look through the entire contract carefully – sometimes the information you need is spread across several sections.
Automatic renewals are regulated on the state and federal levels.
Please remember that this guide is for information purposes only and is not comprehensive.
It is intended as a starting point for research, to illustrate the various sources of the law, and to provide guidance in their use.
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