3.The outcome of a recent court case has highlighted the disparity between Northern Ireland and England & Wales in relation to limitation periods for legal action where a building is shown to be defective. Currently, the statutory limitation period in Northern Ireland remains at 6 years.
4.Following a meeting of the Communities, Finance and DAERA Ministers on 19th March, a joint statement was issued recognising that the current provisions place Northern Ireland citizens at a disadvantage when compared with England & Wales, and agreeing to introduce legislation to address this disparity at the earliest possible opportunity, subject to Executive and Assembly approval.
Background and Policy Objectives