What is the statute of limitations for a consumer's complaint on latent construction defects?

• A. 5 years
• B. 10 years
• C. 7 years
• D. 12 years

Answer: (B)

Latent construction defects are hidden problems in a building that aren’t discoverable with ordinary inspection. California uses a ten-year statute of repose for these defects in improvements to real property. The clock starts at substantial completion of the construction, not when the defect is found. So a consumer must bring a claim within ten years of when the work was completed; discovery or later awareness doesn’t extend the period. This concept explains why ten years is the correct timeframe for latent defect claims.