For how many years does the Statute of Limitations for latent defects in construction work extend?

The Statute of Limitations for latent defects in construction work typically extends to 10 years. This period is essential as it allows an owner or user to bring a legal claim against a contractor or builder for defects that are not immediately apparent. Latent defects are those hidden issues that may not become detectable until many years after the construction is completed, such as structural weakness, improper materials, or non-compliance with building codes.

The rationale behind the 10-year limit is to strike a balance between protecting consumers who may encounter significant issues down the line and providing contractors and builders with a definitive timeframe in which they can expect to be free from liability for their work. Once this period has passed, the contractor cannot be held responsible for the latent defects, promoting stability and predictability in the construction industry. This extended timeframe reflects the understanding that construction defects may take years to surface, necessitating a sufficiently long window for claims to be made.