- Florida's statute of limitations for construction defects is four years. The clock usually starts when the owner takes possession of the building, when the county or city issues a certificate of occupancy or when the contract is completed or terminated. However, if the defect is not obvious, the four-year clock doesn't start until it is discovered.
- A 2003 Florida law requires that building owners notify their contractors in writing 60 days prior to filing a lawsuit over construction defects. This requirement gives the contractor a chance to correct the defect or offer a settlement to avoid legal action.
- Given the variation in time frame for the statute of limitations, attorney Gavin D. Caddy suggests that construction industry professionals keep project records for at least 15 years, so they can defend themselves against defect claims.
next post