Property Deadlines
This is a list of first-party property statute of limitations. Adjusters should be aware of their state’s particular statute of limitation and if the insurer should notify an insured of the upcoming deadline to file suit. While it may seem counter-intuitive, it is a good practice to let the insured know of the upcoming deadline regardless if there is a regulation or statute dictating the same. The reason is transparency. You want the insured to trust you. I know that many companies, if the state remains silent on the issue, will not want the insured to know of the statute of limitation deadline. They worry about an increased slew of litigation. If the companies settle fairly, timely, and equitably, then there should be nothing to worry about.
This chart is current as of the date I wrote it, but adjusters should be familiar with their state’s rules. I cannot guarantee the accuracy of the list. Because laws and regulations can change without notice, an attorney should be contacted if there are any questions regarding this chart. These materials are provided for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice or legal opinions because I am not an attorney.
State | Time | Statute |
|---|---|---|
Alabama | 6 years | AL Code § 6-2-30 et seq. |
Alaska | 6 years (real property); 2 years (personal property) | AK Stat. § 09.10.010 et seq. |
Arizona | 2 years | AZ Rev. Stat. Ann. § 12-541 et seq. |
Arkansas | 3 years | ARCode Ann. § 16-56-101 et seq. |
California | 3 years | CA Civ. Proc. Code § 312 et seq. |
California | California has stayed the statutes of limitation for all civil causes of action from April 6, 2020, to 90 days after the Governor lifts the state of emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The order was lifted on January 25, 2021; the stay will end on April 25, 2021. | |
Colorado | 2 years | CO Rev. Stat. § 13-80-101 et seq. |
Connecticut | 2 years | CT Gen. Stat. Ann. § 52-575 et seq. |
Delaware | 2 years | DE Code Ann. tit. 10, § 8101 et seq. |
District of Columbia | 3 years | D.C. Code § 12-301 et seq. |
Florida | Senate Bill 76, if passed and signed into law, would limit the statute to two years. | |
Florida | 4 years | FL Stat. Ann. § 95.011 et seq. |