In breach of contract, when might specific performance be ordered?

• A. When damages are easily calculated.
• B. When damages would be inadequate, typically for land or uniquely identifiable goods.
• C. When the contract has been terminated by frustration.
• D. When the breaching party is a minor.

Answer: (B)

Specific performance is an equitable remedy used only when money cannot adequately compensate the claimant for the breach. The key condition is the inadequacy of damages. Land is the classic example because it is inherently unique and cannot be replaced by money; similarly, goods that are uniquely identifiable or scarce may justify forcing the seller to perform. When damages would be adequate, a court will not order performance and will instead award monetary compensation. If the contract has been frustrated, the agreement ends and there’s no remedies left to enforce. A minor’s capacity affects enforceability and disaffirmance, not the decision to use specific performance, so that factor isn’t what drives the remedy here. So the best answer reflects that specific performance is available where damages are inadequate, especially for land or uniquely identifiable goods.