A statute of repose extinguishes a claim a fixed period after a triggering event such as product sale, substantial completion of construction, or provision of professional services, regardless of when injury occurs.
It is generally not subject to the discovery rule.
Alternative Names:
Statute of Repose (Abbreviation)
Why it Matters?
The distinction from limitations is that repose can bar a claim before any injury occurs, which makes it the stronger defense where it applies. Product liability and construction defect are the categories where repose statutes exist most commonly, and their availability varies substantially by state. Establishing the triggering event date from sale or completion records is typically simpler than litigating accrual.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
How does repose differ from limitations?
Is repose subject to the discovery rule?
