CS/CS/CS/HB 583 - Construction Defect Claims

• Reduces statute of limitations for latent defects from 10 to 7 years after date of actual possession, certificate of occupancy, or contract completion/termination
• Allows claims within 15 years if claimant proves by clear and convincing evidence that a design professional fraudulently concealed a defect
• Permits claims within 10 years if latent defect arises from material violation of Florida Building Code
• Creates Section 768.401 providing that design professionals (architects, engineers, surveyors, geologists, interior designers) employed by business entities are not individually liable for negligence damages if contract conditions are met, including prominent disclosure statement
• Repeals Chapter 558 (construction defect provisions) and updates cross-references in professional licensing statutes
• Takes effect July 1, 2022, with transitional provisions protecting claims that would have been timely under previous law until July 1, 2023