What term describes the physical damage to tangible property and any resulting loss of use of that property?

The term that describes the physical damage to tangible property and any resulting loss of use of that property is property damage. This concept is fundamental in insurance and legal contexts, as it addresses the impact caused by incidents such as accidents, vandalism, or natural disasters on physical items like buildings, vehicles, or equipment. When property damage occurs, it often includes not only the repair or replacement costs of the damaged property but also any financial losses incurred due to the inability to use that property during the repair or replacement period.

In contrast, personal injury pertains to harm inflicted on an individual's body or emotional well-being rather than their property. Negligence is a legal concept that involves a failure to exercise reasonable care, leading to harm or damage, but does not directly define the damage itself. Strict liability refers to a legal doctrine that holds a party responsible for damages without requiring proof of negligence or fault, which is also a different aspect from the definition of property damage. Thus, property damage is the most accurate term to describe both the physical damage and the resultant loss of use.