What to do if you buy a house with an undisclosed leak?
Your rights depend on state law. In most states you have grounds to sue if the seller concealed or lied about the defect. If it was an obvious problem you should have spotted for yourself, you may be out of luck. Most states require sellers tell you about problems with the house before you buy.
What happens if there is a leak in a house in California?
The defects California sellers have to disclose include not only leaks and other physical problems but bad floor plans and location issues such as being close to the city dump or a railroad track. If the seller disclosed the problem but you didn’t spot it on the disclosure form, he’s off the hook.
What to do if you have a leak in your basement?
Before you take action, ask if the problem really preceded the sale of the house. If the seller claims the leaky pipe in the basement was fine before you moved in, proving he’s lying may be difficult.
Can a home buyer hold a seller responsible for a roof leak?
Sometimes an older roof will have a certification that also carries a guarantee. If it’s still under the certificate, call that person. Even if the seller is responsible, this can be an easier way to get your leak fixed.
Your rights depend on state law. In most states you have grounds to sue if the seller concealed or lied about the defect. If it was an obvious problem you should have spotted for yourself, you may be out of luck. Most states require sellers tell you about problems with the house before you buy.
The defects California sellers have to disclose include not only leaks and other physical problems but bad floor plans and location issues such as being close to the city dump or a railroad track. If the seller disclosed the problem but you didn’t spot it on the disclosure form, he’s off the hook.
What to do if you find a problem when buying a house?
If you discover the home you want to buy has undisclosed problems, the options you have will depend on where you’re located. If you haven’t finished signing all of the closing documents and transferring the title yet, you don’t officially own the house — you’re still under contract.
Sometimes an older roof will have a certification that also carries a guarantee. If it’s still under the certificate, call that person. Even if the seller is responsible, this can be an easier way to get your leak fixed.
