{"id":8805,"date":"2026-11-08T09:04:06","date_gmt":"2026-11-08T09:04:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/business-litigation\/commercial-construction-defect-claims-florida\/"},"modified":"2026-11-11T08:55:28","modified_gmt":"2026-11-11T08:55:28","slug":"commercial-construction-defect-claims-florida","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/business-litigation\/commercial-construction-defect-claims-florida\/","title":{"rendered":"How Long to Sue for Construction Defects in Florida"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark chg-hero\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-70 has-background-dim wp-block-cover__gradient-background has-background-gradient\" style=\"background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(32,36,46,1) 0%,rgba(32,36,46,1) 55%,rgba(32,36,46,0.7) 100%)\"><\/span><img class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-8804\" alt=\"Half-built office tower with exposed steel frame at dusk, with marked-up drawings and a schedule on a pickup hood by a job trailer.\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/half-built-office-tower-with-exposed-steel-frame-at-dusk-wit-photo-1.jpg\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/half-built-office-tower-with-exposed-steel-frame-at-dusk-wit-photo-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/half-built-office-tower-with-exposed-steel-frame-at-dusk-wit-photo-1-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/half-built-office-tower-with-exposed-steel-frame-at-dusk-wit-photo-1-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/half-built-office-tower-with-exposed-steel-frame-at-dusk-wit-photo-1-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/half-built-office-tower-with-exposed-steel-frame-at-dusk-wit-photo-1.jpg 1376w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 825px) 825px, 100vw\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\"\/><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"chg-eyebrow has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Construction Litigation | Tampa and Hillsborough County<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">How Long Do You Have to Sue for Construction Defects in Florida?<\/h1><p class=\"has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.625), 1.25rem);text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Construction defect claims often involve pre-suit notice steps and timing questions that can affect your options. Ayala Law PA, under responsible attorney Eduardo A. Maura, litigates construction and business disputes for businesses in Tampa, Hillsborough County and the Tampa Bay area.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13055702208\">Book a Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/contact\/\">Book a Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#6b7280;margin-bottom:1.5rem\">By Eduardo A. Maura \u00b7 Published November 8, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<p>Florida generally gives you four years to sue over a construction defect. That clock can start when a hidden defect is discovered, but no lawsuit can be filed more than seven years after the project&#8217;s trigger date. This page explains both limits for commercial projects, including those in Hillsborough County.<\/p>\n<h2>How long do you have to sue for a construction defect in Florida?<\/h2>\n<p>Florida law sets a four-year period for actions founded on the design, planning, or construction of an improvement to real property, plus a seven-year outer limit.<\/p>\n<p>Keep these points in mind:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The clock follows project milestones, not the date the contract was signed.<\/li>\n<li>A contract clause that sets a shorter deadline than the applicable statute of limitations is void (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0000-0099\/0095\/Sections\/0095.03.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 95.03<\/a>).<\/li>\n<li>Your deadline depends on the project&#8217;s dates and the defect itself, so no single number fits every case.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-contrast-color has-surface-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--surface,#f2f3f5);color:var(--wp--preset--color--contrast,#22252b);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-contrast-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; we can walk you through how a situation like yours is usually handled and what your options are.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13055702208\">Schedule a consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/contact\/\">Schedule a consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/modern-office-building-with-a-striking-red-glass-facade-unde-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Modern building with a striking red glass facade under a clear blue sky.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>What counts as a construction defect on a commercial project?<\/h2>\n<p>A construction defect is work that falls short of the design, the contract, the approved plans, or applicable building requirements. Common commercial examples include waterproofing failures, cracking from weak footings, roof failures, and HVAC systems installed incorrectly.<\/p>\n<p>Defects fall into two groups:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Patent defects<\/strong> are visible when the work is finished.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Latent defects<\/strong> are hidden and not reasonably found on a normal inspection. These matter most for timing, because the four-year period can run from discovery.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Responsibility can reach more than one party. Owners and developers may have claims against a general contractor, subcontractors, design professionals, or suppliers. The right target depends on whether the problem came from design, workmanship, or materials.<\/p>\n<h2>Statute of limitations versus statute of repose: which clock matters?<\/h2>\n<p>You must file within both periods, so the stricter one sets your real deadline. The four-year period is the filing window. The seven-year period is the outer limit, and it runs from the project&#8217;s trigger date, not from when you found the problem.<\/p>\n<p>Several rules shape how these periods work in practice:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Hidden defects:<\/strong> For a latent defect, the four years run from when the defect was discovered, or should have been discovered with due diligence.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Outer limit:<\/strong> The seven-year limit applies in any event, even if the defect is found later.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Repairs:<\/strong> Correcting or repairing completed work, under warranty or otherwise, does not extend the period for work within a duly issued building permit and certificate.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Multiple buildings:<\/strong> Each building in a multi-building project counts as its own improvement.<\/li>\n<li>Counterclaims, cross-claims, and third-party claims that arise out of the conduct, transaction, or occurrence set out or attempted to be set out in a pleading may be filed up to one year after the pleading they relate to is served, even if otherwise time barred.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Does Florida require notice before you sue over a construction defect?<\/h2>\n<p>Yes, Florida has a pre-suit notice process for many construction defect claims, often called Chapter 558. Treat it as part of your timeline, not as paperwork, because it can affect when and how you file.<\/p>\n<p>Start early with these steps:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Gather the contract, its notice clauses, change orders, and project closeout records.<\/li>\n<li>Confirm which defects and parties the process covers before you act.<\/li>\n<li>Put any notice in writing and keep proof of delivery.<\/li>\n<li>Keep a dated record of every response, inspection, and repair offer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A late, vague, or misdirected notice can cost time you can&#8217;t easily get back. The wording and the timing both matter.<\/p>\n<h2>Litigation or arbitration for commercial defect disputes in Hillsborough County?<\/h2>\n<p>The dispute clause in your contract usually decides whether your case goes to court or to arbitration. Florida enforces written arbitration agreements unless a ground exists at law or in equity to revoke the contract (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0600-0699\/0682\/Sections\/0682.02.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 682.02<\/a>). If a court orders arbitration, it must, on just terms, stay any court case that involves a claim subject to the arbitration, and it may limit the stay to that claim only if the claim is severable (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0600-0699\/0682\/Sections\/0682.03.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 682.03<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>Compare the two paths:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Court:<\/strong> A lawsuit in a Florida court. Venue: Actions shall be brought only in the county where the defendant resides, where the cause of action accrued, or where the property in litigation is located, but this rule does not apply to actions against nonresidents (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0000-0099\/0047\/Sections\/0047.011.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 47.011<\/a>). For a Hillsborough County project, the property&#8217;s location or where the claim arose may place the case there.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Arbitration:<\/strong> A private process governed by the contract and the rules of the arbitration provider it names.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Other timing points matter too. A pending arbitration on the same dispute pauses the limitations clock (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0000-0099\/0095\/Sections\/0095.051.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 95.051<\/a>). On a party&#8217;s request, a court must refer any filed civil action for monetary damages to mediation if the requesting party is willing and able to pay the costs or the costs can be equitably divided between the parties, unless an exception applies (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0000-0099\/0044\/Sections\/0044.102.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 44.102<\/a>). A written offer of settlement can also carry cost consequences. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0000-0099\/0045\/Sections\/0045.061.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 45.061<\/a>, a defendant&#8217;s rejected offer is presumed unreasonably rejected if the judgment entered is at least 25 percent greater than the offer rejected, but the section does not apply to causes of action that accrue after the act&#8217;s effective date (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0000-0099\/0045\/Sections\/0045.061.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 45.061<\/a>). Which path fits depends on the facts and the contract terms.<\/p>\n<h2>How does a commercial construction defect matter move forward?<\/h2>\n<p>Most matters follow the same early steps: review, document, calculate deadlines, handle notice, then negotiate or file. The steps below show what to expect.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Review the contract.<\/strong> Look at the parties, notice clauses, warranties, change orders, closeout documents, and any arbitration clause.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Document the defect.<\/strong> Keep dated photos, inspection reports, repair estimates, and written correspondence.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Calculate the deadlines.<\/strong> Map the trigger date, the discovery date, and the seven-year outer limit.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Handle pre-suit notice.<\/strong> Confirm whether the Chapter 558 process applies, and follow its steps.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Negotiate, mediate, or file.<\/strong> Use negotiation or mediation where it fits. If the matter does not settle, file suit or start arbitration under the contract.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Timelines vary with the court&#8217;s schedule, the parties involved, and how the dispute resolves. If a case proceeds in federal court, the Middle District of Florida&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flmd.uscourts.gov\/civil-case-flowchart\">civil case flowchart<\/a> explains how civil cases begin and how discovery works.<\/p>\n<p>Ayala Law PA&#8217;s only office is in Tampa, at 1646 W Snow Ave. The firm concentrates in business, commercial, construction, and real estate litigation, and it represents businesses in the Tampa Bay area, including Hillsborough County, with its office located in Tampa. Eduardo A. Maura is the lawyer responsible for this page.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-contrast-color has-surface-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--surface,#f2f3f5);color:var(--wp--preset--color--contrast,#22252b);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-contrast-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; we can walk you through how a situation like yours is usually handled and what your options are.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13055702208\">Schedule a consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/contact\/\">Schedule a consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/construction-site-with-cranes-and-steel-framework-silhouette-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Construction site at sunset with cranes towering over a steel building framework.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Common questions owners ask about construction defect deadlines<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What is Chapter 558?<\/summary><p>Chapter 558 is Florida&#8217;s pre-suit notice process for many construction defect claims. It can affect timing, so review it early.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What constitutes a construction defect?<\/summary><p>A defect is work that falls short of the design, the contract, the approved plans, or applicable building requirements. Hidden defects are latent defects, and their four-year period can start at discovery.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What is the seven-year law in Florida?<\/summary><p>The seven-year period is the outer limit under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0000-0099\/0095\/Sections\/0095.11.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 95.11<\/a>, running from the same project events.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>How long are contractors liable for their work?<\/summary><p>There is no single number.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can I still sue if I found the defect years after completion?<\/summary><p>It may be possible if the defect is latent, because the four years can run from discovery. The seven-year outer limit still applies.<\/p>\n<p>If a commercial roof, slab, or building system has failed since completion, or a contractor left punch-list work unfinished, the deadlines may already be running. Contact Ayala Law PA at (305) 570-2208 or through our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/contact\/\">contact page<\/a> to review your project&#8217;s dates.<\/p><\/details><\/article>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>Attorney advertising. The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice; reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship with Ayala Law PA. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Ayala Law PA, 1646 W Snow Ave, Tampa, FL 33606.<\/em><\/footer>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Why Timing Matters in a Construction Dispute<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--clock\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Early Review of Deadlines<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Notice requirements and filing timelines can run before a dispute feels urgent. Reviewing your contract and project records early helps you understand where you stand.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Organized Project Records<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Contracts, change orders, inspection reports, photos and correspondence give a clearer picture of what went wrong and when it was discovered.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--shield\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Protecting Your Business<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Construction defects can affect cash flow, bonding and reputation. A timely, measured response can help protect the business while the dispute is evaluated.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--chat\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Clear, Practical Guidance<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We explain the options in plain language so you can make informed decisions about negotiation, notice or litigation.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-contrast-color has-surface-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--surface,#f2f3f5);color:var(--wp--preset--color--contrast,#22252b);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-contrast-color has-text-color\">Do Not Wait to Evaluate a Construction Defect<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Waiting to look into a defect can limit the steps still available to you. Gather your contract, plans, invoices and written communications now, and contact us before sending any formal notice or signing a release.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13055702208\">Call (305) 570-2208<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/contact\/\">Call (305) 570-2208<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-surface-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Construction Disputes We Handle<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Contractor and Subcontractor Disputes<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Payment disputes, defective work, delay claims and breach of subcontract issues between general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Lien Foreclosure<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Claims to enforce or defend construction liens on Florida real property, including the procedural steps that can affect priority and recovery.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Construction Contract Fraud<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Matters involving misrepresentation in bids, billing, licensing or performance under a construction contract.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Real Estate and Commercial Claims<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Related real estate litigation and commercial contract disputes that arise out of development, improvement or sale of property.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--primary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Talk With Ayala Law PA About Your Construction Dispute<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-0aa01211 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+13055702208\">Book a Case Evaluation or Call (305) 570-2208<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/contact\/\">Book a Case Evaluation or Call (305) 570-2208<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"\/resources\/business-litigation\/\">Business Litigation<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/business-litigation\/breach-of-fiduciary-duty-llc-manager-florida\/\">Shareholder and LLC Manager Breach of Fiduciary Duty Litigation in Florida<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- chg:section-siblings -->\n<nav aria-label=\"More in this section\">\n<h2>More in this section<\/h2>\n<ul><li><a href=\"\/resources\/business-litigation\/commercial-landlord-lockout-business-tenant-florida\/\">Can a Commercial Landlord Lock Out a Business Tenant in Florida?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/business-litigation\/commercial-lease-cam-charges-dispute-florida\/\">Commercial Lease CAM Charges Dispute in Florida: When a Landlord Overcharges Common Area Maintenance<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/business-litigation\/commercial-lease-dispute-lawsuit-florida\/\">Commercial Lease Disputes in Florida: Unpaid Rent, Defaults, and Lease Enforcement<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/business-litigation\/commercial-lease-security-deposit-dispute-florida\/\">Commercial Lease Security Deposit Disputes in Florida: What Governs Recovery From a Business Tenant or Landlord<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/business-litigation\/commercial-property-encroachment-florida\/\">Neighbor Encroachment on Commercial Property in Florida: Boundary and Easement Disputes for Business Owners<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Florida generally allows four years to sue over a construction defect, with a seven-year outer limit. Learn how these clocks work for commercial projects.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":1563,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_review":"","chg_sendback":"","chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"[]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"name\": \"Florida Commercial Construction Defect Litigation Guidance\", \"@type\": [\"Service\", \"FAQPage\"], \"about\": [{\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Contract\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Contract\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Arbitration\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Arbitration\"}], \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"BusinessAudience\", \"audienceType\": \"Commercial property owners, developers, business operators, general contractors, and subcontractors facing construction defect claims in Florida\"}, \"provider\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Ayala Law PA\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/\"}, \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"areaServed\": [{\"name\": \"Florida\", \"@type\": \"State\"}, {\"name\": \"Hillsborough County, Florida\", \"@type\": \"AdministrativeArea\"}], \"description\": \"Informational guidance on how long to sue for commercial construction defects in Florida, covering the statute of limitations, the statute of repose, Chapter 558 pre-suit notice, and litigation versus arbitration in Hillsborough County.\", \"serviceType\": \"Construction defect litigation\", \"mentions\": [{\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Mediation\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mediation\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Lawsuit\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lawsuit\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Damages\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Damages\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Statute of limitations\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Statute_of_limitations\"}], \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Eduardo A. Maura\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/eduardo-a-maura\/\", \"jobTitle\": \"Attorney\", \"worksFor\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Ayala Law PA\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/\"}}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Ayala Law PA\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/\"}, \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Eduardo A. Maura\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/eduardo-a-maura\/\", \"jobTitle\": \"Attorney\", \"worksFor\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Ayala Law PA\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/\"}}, \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What is Chapter 558?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Chapter 558 is Florida's pre-suit notice process for many construction defect claims. It can affect timing, so review it early.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What constitutes a construction defect?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"A defect is work that falls short of the design, the contract, the approved plans, or applicable building requirements. Hidden defects are latent defects, and their four-year period can start at discovery.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What is the seven-year law in Florida?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"The seven-year period is the outer limit under Fla. Stat. \u00a7 95.11, running from the same project events.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How long are contractors liable for their work?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"There is no single number.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can I still sue if I found the defect years after completion?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"It may be possible if the defect is latent, because the four years can run from discovery. The seven-year outer limit still applies. If a commercial roof, slab, or building system has failed since completion, or a contractor left punch-list work unfinished, the deadlines may already be running. Contact Ayala Law PA at (305) 570-2208 or through our contact page to review your project's dates.\"}}]}, {\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\", \"itemListElement\": [{\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 1, \"name\": \"Home\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 2, \"name\": \"Business Litigation\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/business-litigation\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 3, \"name\": \"How Long to Sue for Construction Defects in Florida\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/business-litigation\/commercial-construction-defect-claims-florida\/\"}]}]","chg_meta_description":"Florida generally allows four years to sue over a construction defect, with a seven-year outer limit. Learn how these clocks work for commercial projects.","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-8805","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/8805","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8805"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/8805\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11168,"href":"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/8805\/revisions\/11168"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1563"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.lawayala.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8805"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}