How many years does one have to file a claim for latent defects after substantial completion?

The correct answer is 10 years, which aligns with California's law regarding latent defects. Under California law, specifically the Civil Code Section 337.15, a property owner has a period of 10 years to bring a lawsuit concerning latent defects that are not immediately apparent after the substantial completion of a construction project.

Latent defects refer to issues or flaws that are not visible or discoverable upon reasonable inspection at the time of substantial completion. Since these defects can manifest long after the work has been completed, the 10-year window provides ample time for property owners to identify and act on these defects, ensuring that builders and contractors remain responsible for their work for a significant period.

This extended timeframe is designed to protect property owners from hidden defects that could potentially have serious repercussions and costs associated with safety, usability, and property value. The law thus reflects an understanding of the long-term nature of construction projects and the potential for undiscovered flaws.