Massachusetts law
Construction Defect Laws in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts construction-defect claims typically proceed as negligence, breach-of-contract, or breach-of-warranty actions, often paired with Chapter 93A claims against builders for unfair trade practices. Massachusetts applies a 3-year tort limitation at M.G.L. c. 260, § 2A and a 6-year statute of repose for improvements to real property at c. 260, § 2B.
Last verified: 2026-04-17
State law
Statute of Limitations
Massachusetts construction-defect claims depend on theory. Tort claims generally follow a 3-year period; contract claims follow a 6-year period; and Massachusetts applies a 6-year statute of repose for actions based on deficient design, planning, construction, or general administration of improvements to real property.
State law
Key Massachusetts Statutes
Massachusetts applies a 6-year statute of repose for actions arising from defective or unsafe conditions of improvements to real property — one of the shorter repose periods in the country.
State law
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.
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