Under what circumstance can a Surety Bond be forfeited?

A Surety Bond can be forfeited when the principal fails to meet the obligations specified in the bond. This condition arises from the fundamental purpose of a surety bond, which is to ensure that the principal adheres to certain contractual obligations. If the principal does not fulfill these requirements – whether it's related to performance, payment, or compliance with laws or regulations – the surety is liable to compensate the obligee for any resulting losses up to the bond's limit.

This process illustrates the protective nature of surety bonds for the obligee, providing financial security in case of non-compliance by the principal. The obligation of the surety to pay or cover losses reflects the trust placed in the surety company to ensure that the principal will act as promised. This is why the failure to meet specific obligations is a clear ground for the forfeiture of the bond, triggering the surety's duty to respond to the situation.