Flow-Down Clause
The prime contract's terms bind the sub, passed down the chain.
What it means
A flow-down clause (also called a conduit or pass-through clause) makes terms of the prime contract between the owner and the general contractor binding on the subcontractor, as if written into the subcontract. Insurance requirements, dispute procedures, schedules, and safety rules commonly flow down this way. The catch: the sub is agreeing to a document it may never have seen unless it asks for it.
Why it matters before you sign
If your subcontract flows down the prime contract, that prime contract is part of your deal — request and read it (or at least the flowed-down sections) before signing, not after a dispute.
In a contract, it looks like this
The flow-down clause bound the painting sub to the prime contract's claim-notice deadlines, which were shorter than the subcontract's.
This definition is a general, educational explanation — not legal advice. XOsign provides AI-assisted document tools and does not provide legal advice; consider consulting a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation. Requirements vary by state.
See any term explained in your own document.
Upload an agreement and XOsign walks you through every clause in plain language — before you sign, not after.