Condition Subsequent

In real estate and contract law, a condition subsequent is a condition that applies after an estate has already vested or a contract has become effective, and that can result in the termination of rights or obligations if the condition is not met. Unlike a condition precedent, the contract or property interest is valid and enforceable until the specified condition fails to occur or is violated. For example, a property may be conveyed with a condition that it be used for a specific purpose, and failure to comply could result in the loss of the estate. Conditions subsequent are significant because they can defeat an existing interest or extinguish a contract after it has taken effect.