Despite many challenges, owning a home remains the American dream. While buying a home is a big step, what if you found out that it has undisclosed defects? This can be a nightmare for any homeowner.
If you have just bought a home and are discovering undisclosed defects, you may feel frustrated, angry and even cheated. Some major defects to look out for include water damage, electrical issues and HVAC issues. Below are a few steps you can take if you discover undisclosed defects after purchasing a house.
Document your findings
Look for any visible signs of damage, such as water stains on the walls or ceilings, foundation cracks or plumbing leaks. It’s crucial to document any defects you find, take pictures and note the date of discovery. You should also consider getting a professional inspection from a certified home inspector. The inspector will provide you with a detailed report of any hidden or latent defects that were not visible during your initial inspection.
Review your contract
Review your contract to see if any clause protects you in case of undisclosed defects. If your contract includes a clause that guarantees the seller’s disclosure of any defects, you may have a legal basis for a claim. However, the situation becomes more complicated if the contract has no such clause.
Contact the seller
If you discover any defects in your newly bought house, you should contact the seller immediately. Explain the situation and try to negotiate a solution. If the seller refuses to cooperate, you may have to consider legal action.
Buying a house with undisclosed defects can be a stressful experience, but it’s essential to take action as soon as possible. If the above mentioned steps don’t work, you may seek legal assistance to help protect your investment.