property damage

property damage

n. injury to real or personal property through another's negligence, willful destruction, or by some act of nature. In lawsuits for damages caused by negligence or a willful act, property damage is distinguished from personal injury. Property damage may include harm to an automobile, a fence, a tree, a home, or any other possession. The amount of recovery for property damage may be established by evidence of replacement value, cost of repairs, loss of use until repaired or replaced, or, in the case of heirlooms or very personal items (e.g. wedding pictures) by subjective testimony as to sentimental value. (See: property, damages)