Glossary

What Is Statute of Limitations?

The legal deadline by which you must file a property damage or injury claim after an accident.

Definition

The statute of limitations is the maximum time allowed by state law to bring a claim after an accident. For property damage — including diminished value and ACV disputes — this is typically two to four years depending on the state, but deadlines vary.

Why it matters for your claim

Missing the deadline can permanently bar your claim regardless of how strong your evidence is. File as soon as repairs are complete and you have market documentation.

Deadlines vary by state — do not assume a single national rule.
The clock usually starts on the date of loss (the accident).
Partial payments do not always extend the deadline.
Consult state-specific guides for your filing window.

Common questions

How long do I have to file a diminished value claim?

It depends on your state. Common windows are two to four years for property damage claims. Check your state's specific rules before waiting too long after repairs.