Brought a House with a Hidden Defect

Buying a new house can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. It’s a big financial investment and the prospect of owning your own property can be very inviting. However, things don’t always go according to plan, and buying a house with hidden defects or flaws can turn your dream into a nightmare. What you should do if you have brought a house with a hidden defect.

Understanding Hidden Defects

A hidden defect is a term used to describe any fault or issue with a property that was not disclosed or known to the buyer at the time of purchase. Hidden defects can range from something minor like a leaky faucet to something major like a structural issue.

Examples of Hidden Defects

▪️Mold and water damage

▪️Foundation issues

▪️Pest infestations

▪️Electrical problems

▪️Plumbing issues

▪️Roof leaks

What to Do if You Discover a Hidden Defect

If you’ve discovered a hidden defect in your home, there are several steps you can take to address the issue:

1. Contact the Seller

The first thing you should do is contact the seller or their agent to notify them of the defect. In some cases, the seller may not have been aware of the issue and may be willing to work with you to fix the problem. However, if they refuse to take responsibility, you may need to escalate the issue.

2. Consult a Lawyer

If the seller is not willing to work with you, you may need to consult a lawyer. Depending on the severity of the defect, you may be able to take legal action against the seller to recover damages. A lawyer can help you understand your options and provide guidance on the best course of action.

3. Contact Your Home Inspector

If you had a home inspection before purchasing the property, you may want to contact the inspector to see if they missed any defects. In some cases, the inspector may be held liable for failing to identify a hidden defect. Contact a qualified lawyer to determine your options in this situation.

4. Determine the Extent of the Defect

You should also determine the extent of the defect and how it will affect your property value. If it’s a minor issue, you may be able to fix it yourself. However, if it’s a major issue, you may need to hire a contractor or structural engineer to assess the damage and provide a cost estimate for repairs.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company

If the hidden defect is covered under your homeowners’ insurance policy, you may be able to file a claim to cover the cost of repairs. Contact your insurance company to determine if the issue is covered and what your policy will pay for.

How to Avoid Hidden Defects

The best way to avoid hidden defects is to conduct a thorough inspection of the property before purchasing it. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that you’re aware of any issues:

▪️Hire a qualified home inspector to assess the property before making an offer

▪️Research the history of the property, including any previous repairs or renovations

▪️Ask the seller for a property disclosure statement, which should detail any known defects or issues with the property

▪️Talk to neighbors and ask if they’ve experienced any issues with their homes.

Final Thoughts

Buying a house with a hidden defect is a frustrating and stressful situation to deal with. However, it’s important to remember that you have options and there are steps you can take to address the issue. If you discover a hidden defect, contact the seller, consult a lawyer, determine the extent of the damage, and contact your insurance company. By taking these steps, you can protect your investment and ensure that your dream home doesn’t turn into a nightmare.