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

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for property damage is generally 2 years under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524.

2 YEARS
Property Damage · Pennsylvania
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Property damage Deadlines in Pennsylvania

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

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for property damage is generally 2 years under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524.

When does the clock start for property damage in Pennsylvania?

Two years. Section 5524 covers taking, detaining, or injuring personal property, including actions for specific recovery.

Can the Pennsylvania deadline for property damage be extended?

Pennsylvania runs property claims on the same short clock as personal injury. Recovery of possession of real property runs twenty-one years under § 5530.

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

Often, yes. Written notice within 6 months under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5522. Section 5522 requires written notice of intent to sue a government unit within six months of the date the injury was sustained. The notice must state the name and address of the claimant, the date, hour, and place of the injury, and the name and address of any…

How does Pennsylvania compare to other states for property damage?

Pennsylvania's 2 years is among the shortest in the country. 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 Pennsylvania:

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 Pennsylvania

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