Chapter IX - Of Bailment
Section 166
Section 166: Good-faith return to a bailor without title
A bailee who in good faith returns goods to a bailor without title has the specified protection against the owner regarding that delivery.
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Need advice on Section 166?
This article is for general information. Refer to the Indian Contract Act, 1872 official text for the official provisions. If you need professional advice for your situation, contact Bizeneed.
Statutory text
Bare law
If the bailor has no title to the goods, and the bailee, in good faith, delivers them back to, or according to the directions of, the bailor, the bailee is not responsible to the owner in respect of such delivery.
Rule and business relevance
The protection concerns re-delivery to the bailor or according to the bailor’s directions and expressly requires good faith.
Limits and related provisions
It is not permission to disregard court orders or known circumstances undermining good faith. Third-party title claims are addressed in section 167.
Hypothetical business example
Hypothetical example: A custodian returns goods in good faith to the depositor before any relevant competing claim is known. The protection is assessed on those delivery circumstances.
Practical decision flow
Identify the person or directions used for return.
Record the facts relevant to good faith.
Check any competing claim or court order before delivery.
Check the applicable legal framework
This guide explains the central provision. Applicable State amendments, the agreement, transaction date and other governing laws can affect its application. Check the current legal framework before relying on it for a commercial decision.
Practical checklist
Do
- Identify the person or directions used for return.
- Record the facts relevant to good faith.
- Check any competing claim or court order before delivery.
Avoid
- It is not permission to disregard court orders or known circumstances undermining good faith. Third-party title claims are addressed in section 167.
Glossary
- Good faith
- The statutory condition for the re-delivery protection.
- Title
- Legal ownership or entitlement to the goods.
Frequently asked questions
Is protection unconditional?
No. Good faith and the stated delivery circumstances matter.
What liability is addressed?
Responsibility to the owner in respect of that delivery.
Where can a third person seek a title decision?
Section 167 allows the described court application.
Need help applying this provision to your situation?
Contact BizeneedLast updated 10 October 2026