Time limits apply in Washington. Find out if you still qualify.
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Verified against court records, regulatory records, and peer-reviewed research.
Last reviewed against primary sources: June 12, 2026
Statute of Limitations
Washington: 3 years for personal injury and property damage (RCW § 4.16.080). Discovery rule applies. Government claims require filing within 60 days of injury under RCW § 4.96.020.
3 years from discovery of injury or damage
Where to File in Washington
Wildfire claims in Washington are filed in King County Superior Court (Seattle), Chelan County (central Washington fire zones), and Spokane County, as well as the Western and Eastern Districts of Washington federal courts. Washington follows a pure comparative fault system (RCW § 4.22.005) where plaintiff recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault but not barred at any threshold. Washington does not cap compensatory damages in negligence cases. The state's Consumer Protection Act (RCW § 19.86) may provide additional remedies including treble damages for utility conduct that constitutes unfair or deceptive practices. Eastern Washington's dry climate and interface development make Chelan and Spokane counties frequent wildfire venues.
Exposure in Washington
Source: Washington DNR / King County Emergency Management
Source: Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner
Source: USFS Wildland-Urban Interface Assessment