SB59 Alabama 2011 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Cam Ward
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2011
Title: Civil actions against architects, engineers, or builders, statute of repose decreased, Secs. 6-5-221, 6-5-222, 6-5-225, 6-5-227 am'd. (2011-20271)
Summary: SB59 changes the time to sue architects, engineers, or builders: file within two years after a problem happens, and no suit can be started more than seven years after construction is finished, with a discovery rule for latent injuries.
What This Bill Does
It sets a uniform two-year window to begin actions against architects, engineers, or builders from when damage or injury occurs (or is discovered for latent injuries) and bars actions more than seven years after substantial completion. It includes a discovery rule so the clock starts at discovery for hidden problems. It also preserves the right to sue for breaches of written warranties, contracts, or indemnities that extend beyond seven years and clarifies how timing works when ownership or possession of the property is involved.

Who It Affects
Architects, engineers, and builders, who would be subject to a two-year filing window from when damage occurs and a seven-year repose after substantial completion (with discovery rules and possession-related considerations).
Property owners and other plaintiffs who may sue for damages, injuries, or property loss caused by construction defects, under the two-year accrual rule, seven-year cap, discovery rule, and warranty/contract indemnity provisions.

Key Provisions
Sets a two-year period to commence actions from when a cause accrues or arises, with a seven-year cap after substantial completion and a discovery rule for latent injuries.
Preserves the ability to pursue breaches of written express warranties, contracts, or indemnities that extend beyond seven years and clarifies accrual timing and ownership-possession considerations within the limits.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Statute of Repose