What is the statute of limitations for a construction defect?
For latent defects, lawsuits must be filed within 10 years of substantial completion for issues with design, surveys, plans, specifications, supervision or construction observation. The start of this 10-year period begins either on the date of the final inspection, the recording of a valid notice of completion, the date of occupation or a year after work stops being done. This statute does not apply to willful concealment of flaws.
Individuals may have legal recourse for defects in either residential or commercial buildings. Residential construction flaws may not always be obvious and sometimes are only discovered when a home suffers major damage due to a minor incident as a result of a lack of structural integrity. A lawyer may be able to assist someone in determining what their legal options are based on current construction law.
Source: AIA California Council, “Statute of Limitations“, October 02, 2014