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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Property Damage in Illinois?

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for property damage is generally 5 years under 735 ILCS 5/13-205.

5 YEARS
Property Damage · Illinois
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Property damage Deadlines in Illinois

How long do you have to file a property damage claim in Illinois?

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for property damage is generally 5 years under 735 ILCS 5/13-205.

When does the clock start for property damage in Illinois?

Five years for damage to property — Illinois runs property claims far longer than the two-year personal-injury period.

Can the Illinois deadline for property damage be extended?

Section 13-205 is the residual five-year provision, also covering unwritten contracts and civil actions not otherwise provided for.

Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in Illinois?

Often, yes. Suit against a local public entity within 1 year under 745 ILCS 10/8-101. The Local Governmental and Governmental Employees Tort Immunity Act cuts the filing period to one year for civil actions against a local public entity or its employees — half the ordinary two-year personal-injury period. Claims against the State go to the Illi…

How does Illinois compare to other states for property damage?

Illinois's 5 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 51 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for property damage ranges from 2 years to 10 years, and 3 years is the most common. Compare all states →

What Does Property Damage Cover?

Situations that typically fall under the property damage deadline in Illinois:

01 Vehicle collisions causing property damage
02 Water or fire damage from a neighboring property
03 Construction or excavation damage
04 Damage to stored or personal belongings
05 Trespass-related property destruction
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Other Filing Deadlines in Illinois

Statutes of limitations have exceptions, and courts apply them to specific facts. This page states the general rule. A licensed Illinois attorney can tell you the deadline that applies to your situation.
See every filing deadline in Illinois, or compare property damage across all states.
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