Does a contract have to be in writing to be valid?

My neighbour says an oral contract doesn’t count, but I feel like she might be wrong.

Harpreet

Harpreet

Vancouver, BC

A contract can be formed orally. If both parties intend to be bound, there's certainty as to what the obligations on both ends are, and they both agree, a contract is formed, even if it isn't in writing. 

But some contracts have to be in writing, like a contract for real property or a mortgage. Another example is a payday loan — if it isn’t in writing, it isn’t valid.

Otherwise, having a contract in writing is more helpful in terms of evidence. So, for example, if one side doesn't live up to their agreement, the other can point to the written contract to say, hey, you messed up here and I could be owed damages. If it's just oral, then it's harder to prove the underlying obligation.

Check out our primer on contracts here for more info.

David Kandestin

David Kandestin

People's Law School
  • This information applies to British Columbia, Canada
  • Reviewed for legal accuracy in May 2021

Also on this topic

Still not sure what to do?

If you're looking for advice specific to your situation, there are options for free or low-cost help.

Options for legal help

We are grateful to work on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, whose Peoples continue to live on and care for these lands.