How Property Disclosures Work

If required in your area, here are some common types of questions that sellers may have to answer:

• Do you have the legal right to sell this property? Yes, some people have tried to sell property that they don’t own!
• Has the roof ever leaked? Often roofs don’t get replaced until they leak.
• Are there any moisture problems in the home or basement?
• Are there any agreements for shared maintenance of roads, landscaping, buildings, etc.?
• Are there Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions? (CC&Rs or rules for the neighborhood or complex)
• Have there been any problems with the land shifting? (erosion, flooding, land slides, etc.)
• Has there been any remodeling or additions? Were permits issued? Many homes are remodeled without proper permits.
• Are there any boundary disputes with neighboring properties?
• Do you know of any hazardous substances in the property? (asbestos, lead paint, etc.)
• Are all the electrical, plumbing, heating, etc. systems in good working order?

Don’t rely on Property Disclosures. A home inspection is the most reliable way to find out about problems.

The property disclosure statement is just a starting point to investigate anything that concerns you. A seller can claim that they didn’t know about certain problems with the home, so a home inspection is your chance to get an accurate picture of the condition of the home.  See What to Inspect When You’re Inspecting.

A Property Disclosure Statement typically does not require sellers to disclose whether sex offenders live nearby.

Thinking of buying a home in the Portland, Oregon area? Checkout our First Time Home Buying Classes!

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