Purchasing a home is an exciting step for a Tennessee family, but this excitement can quickly turn into stress and uncertainty if there are problems with the home. Part of the homebuying process includes a required disclosure of defects in the home, but it is possible some defects are not apparent until after the transaction is complete. This leaves the new owner with potentially expensive issues to repair after just purchasing the property.

Common types of defects

Sellers sometimes fail to disclose problems with the property because they don’t want to lose money on expensive and complicated repairs. Some of the most common types of home defects sellers sometimes fail to disclose include:

• Wood rot or termite infestation
• Hidden water damage
• Damage to the roof
• Faulty or old wiring
• Radon leaks
• Leaking septic tank or plumbing issues
• Band ventilation or old windows
• Cracks in the driveway or the foundation
• Electrical or HVAC issues

It is the seller’s responsibility to disclose any issues with the home when selling. If there is a discovery of an intentionally hidden or nondisclosed defect, there are steps the new owner can take to protect his or her interests.

Homeowners’ rights

If there is a defect in a newly purchased home, a homeowner may find it beneficial to learn about the specific legal options available to him or her. A Tennessee attorney familiar in real estate law help the buyer move forward with the best option for him or her. Undisclosed defects can be costly and stressful, and the new owner would be wise to take quick action as soon as a problem with the home is discovered.