Is it a law, that you have to tell the purchasers of a home that part of that home caught fire?

Question

My husband and I bought a house and after we moved in all the neighbors told us that part of the house had caught fire. Now since it is summer and I keep the rooms closed up you can really smell that burned smell in the spare bedroom.

Answer 1

Yes it is the law is call owners disclosure- and your Real State agent should have Investigated with the former owners--- I hope you hire an Inspector to check the Wiring Pluming and Roofing and also forTermites

Answer 2

The law varies from state to state. You need to check with whichever agency regulates sales of real estate in your area.

Some states have quite restrictive disclosure laws, and others are basically "buyer beware". A properly repaired home which experienced a fire does not have any odors remaining. There are specific treatments which are applied to any areas exposed to flames and/or smoke which will kill such residual odors. You may or may not be able to access such areas if the repairs are completed, since any wall framing exposed would need to be treated prior to refinishing.

Check your state's disclosure laws, and then contact a qualified attorney if the sellers failed to disclose according to law.

Answer 3

Greetings. Yes it is law and morally, ethically correct that every important repair that can weaken/ affect, the structural integrity of the house be stated..What I don't understand is. Why you didn't get an inspection before you bought the house. It's always in your best interest to do so.Now unfortunately you know why..I'd try to seek compensation, but it maybe too late..
Good Luck!

Answer 4

It depends on where you live. I live in Alabama - Alabama is a "Cavet Emptor" (sp)state. This means buyer beware. A homeowner doesn't have to disclose anything.

Answer 5

yes it is the law talk to your Realtor you bought the home from

Answer 6

yes seller should disclose any thing in that house if he or she knows about it