SB 800 Building Performance Standards & Time Limits

Building Performance Standards

The standards and statutes of limitations to the right are intended to address every function and component of a structure. Those not addressed by these standards can also be actionable if they cause damage (Civil Code §897). 

Time Limits & Substantial Completion

No action can be taken more than 10 years after substantial completion (Civil Code §941) defined by whichever of these dates occurs first: 

  • Final inspection by an applicable public agency 

  • Recording of a valid Notice of Completion 

  • Use or occupation

Statutes of Limitations

1 YEAR 

  • Fit & finish warranties 

  • Irrigation & drainage 

  • Manufactured products 

  • Noise (from original occupancy of adjacent unit) 

2 YEARS 

  • Dryer ducts 

  • Landscaping systems 

  • Untreated wood posts decay 

4 YEARS 

  • Cracks in exterior hardscape, pathways, driveways, landscape, sidewalls, sidewalks & patios 

  • Electrical 

  • Plumbing & sewer 

  • Steel fence corrosion 

5 YEARS 

  • Deterioration of building surfaces due to paint or stain 

10 YEARS 

All other defects or violation of building standards: 

  • Air conditioning in living spaces 

  • Balconies & balcony systems 

  • Ceramic tiles, backings & counter tops 

  • Chimney caps & ventilation 

  • Decks & deck systems 

  • Doors, patio doors & deck doors 

  • Exterior stairs & stair systems 

  • Exterior stucco, siding, walls, framing, finishes & fixtures 

  • Fire Protection 

  • Foundations, slabs & underlying soils 

  • Heating 

  • Irrigation & drainage systems 

  • Landscape, paths & patios 

  • Plumbing lines, sewer lines & utility lines 

  • Retaining & site walls, associated drainage systems 

  • Roofing materials & systems 

  • Shower & bath enclosures 

  • Soils & engineered retaining walls 

  • Windows & related systems