Negligence claim limitation calculator

Six years from the date damage is suffered (s.2 Limitation Act 1980).

Calculator — accuracy depends on current rates

This calculator uses the rules and figures published on the dates shown. Rates, thresholds, and fees change — always verify the current figure on the official government website before paying or filing. The output is not legal advice.

Rates current as of: 2026-06-12.

Privacy: runs entirely in your browser. Nothing you enter is sent to us or saved.

When to use this tool

You have a non-injury negligence claim (professional negligence, property damage, financial loss) and want to check whether you're in time. Latent damage has a separate 3-year window under s.14A.

Limitation periods are strictly enforced. Missing the deadline normally bars your claim entirely. This calculator is an indicative guide — confirm with a regulated solicitor before relying on the result.

Negligence limitation calculator (non-PI)

Date the damage was suffered (accrual)

The 6-year primary period under s.2 Limitation Act 1980 runs from this date — when the damage was actually suffered, NOT the date of the negligent act.

Latent damage / date of knowledge (s.14A & s.14B Limitation Act 1980). Tick this if the damage was hidden and the claimant only discovered it later — common in professional negligence cases.

Legal basis: Limitation Act 1980 s.2 (6-year primary), s.14A (3-year-from-knowledge for latent damage), s.14B (15-year long-stop).

Personal injury: different rules apply — use the Personal Injury Limitation Calculator (3-year period under s.11).

Practical tip: the date of accrual in negligence is the date damage was suffered, not the date of the negligent act. In professional negligence cases the gap can be substantial — Forster v Outred [1982] 1 WLR 86 and Sephton v Lloyds [2006] UKHL 22 are the leading authorities.

Official Resources

Limitation Act 1980 →