How long do I have to bring a construction defect claim for my house?
If you are a homeowner in South Carolina and you have recently discovered a construction defect in your home, you may be wondering how long you have to bring a claim against the builder or contractor responsible for the defect. The answer to this question is not always straightforward, as there are several different factors that can impact the statute of limitations for a construction defect claim.
In general, the statute of limitations for a construction defect claim in South Carolina is three years from the date the defect was discovered or should have been discovered through reasonable diligence. This means that if you discover a defect in your home today, you would generally have three years from today to file a claim against the responsible party.
However, there are some important exceptions to this general rule. For example, South Carolina law includes a "statute of repose" that limits the time frame for bringing a construction defect claim to eight years after the completion of the construction project. This means that if your home was completed more than eight years ago, you may have a more difficult time gaining compensation.
There are also some other factors that can impact the statute of limitations for a construction defect claim. For example, if the defect was caused by fraud or intentional misconduct on the part of the builder or contractor, the statute of limitations may be extended. Similarly, if the defect was caused by a failure to comply with building codes or other regulatory requirements, the statute of limitations may also be extended.
If you are considering bringing a construction defect claim in South Carolina, it is important to work with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure that you meet all of the applicable deadlines and requirements. Your attorney can review your case, help you understand your legal options, and work with you to develop a strategy for pursuing compensation for any damages or losses you have suffered as a result of the construction defect.
If you have discovered a construction defect in your home, it is important to act quickly to protect your legal rights. The statute of limitations for a construction defect claim in South Carolina is generally three years from the date of discovery, but there are several important exceptions and factors that can impact this deadline. To learn more about your legal options and to ensure that you meet all of the applicable deadlines and requirements, contact English to set up a complimentary consultation to discuss your construction defect claim.