There’s no substitute for an inspection!

No matter how thorough or trustworthy the seller may be, a seller disclosure is no substitute for a thorough home inspection by a licensed and qualified professional. Most sellers simply aren’t trained to look for and identify the issues that can affect the average home. Before you buy, always get an inspection.

What’s on the Virginia Disclosure Form

The Virginia Residential Property Disclosure Act (found in Title 55.1, Chapter 7 of the Code of Virginia) governs the information sellers must disclose to prospective buyers on a signed “Residential Property Disclosure Statement”.

It is less of a “disclosure” statement than a warning. The seller is not disclosing, and/or “makes no representation” about various issues.

Virginia follows the rule of caveat emptor/buyer beware.  It is up to you to do your own inspections and inquiries.  You are not entitled to rely on anything the seller tells you. Basically, the Virginia Disclosure form provides notice to buyers that it is up to them to inspect and investigate the property on their own. Don’t expect the seller to disclose hidden defects in the home.