The problems you must report are the ones that are obvious: leaky pipes, rotting wood, fires, basement flooding—basically anything about your property that has bothered you and that you know will bother the new residents. However, you can’t be cavalier about the unknown issues. In some scenarios, turning a blind eye could get you in hot water. Depending on the state in which you’re selling your house, you could be held responsible for not discovering unknown potential problems.
Educate yourself about the specific disclosures your state requires.
COMMON DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENT UIREMENTS
(these vary by state and location):
• Any significant defects regarding walls, ceilings, floors, roofs, windows, doors, foundation, fences, driveways, plumbing, and electrical systems. • Lack of compliance with child safety standards. • Additions or modifications to any rooms in the house. • Use of hazardous substances on property. • Zoning violations. • Regular neighborhood noise disturbances. • Any features on property shared with neighbors. • Damage to property from fire, earthquake, floods, or landslides.
WHAT YOUR STATE EXPECTS
Many states have strict disclosure regulations. Check with your state department of real estate. They can get you all the forms and
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