Specifies the maximum periods from the accrual of the cause of action for which claims will be heard before becoming statutebarred. The main periods are: six years for simple contracts and claims for personal property; 12 years for contracts by deed or concerning real property and land; and three years for personal injury (but the court can extend this period (s.11)). If the claimant is unable to take action at the time of accrual because of a disability (e.g. mental incapacity), the time runs from when the disability ends. By s.11 the time runs from the cause of action or when the claimant first had significant knowledge of his right of claim and the identity of the defendant. The Latent Damages Act 1986 deals with latent damage cases.