What Do I Need to Disclose to Sell My Home in Michigan

In Michigan, home sellers are required to disclose certain information about the property’s condition and any known defects. These disclosures are mandated by state law to ensure that buyers are fully informed before purchasing a property. Here’s a detailed overview of what sellers are required to disclose when selling a home in Michigan:

Seller’s Disclosure Statement

Michigan law requires sellers to complete a Seller’s Disclosure Statement, which must be provided to the buyer before the sale is finalized. This statement covers various aspects of the property, including:

1. Structural Condition:

• Foundation, basement, and crawl space condition (including any history of flooding or water seepage).
• Roof condition and any known leaks.
• Walls, ceilings, and floors.
• Chimneys and fireplaces.

1. Utilities and Services:

• Electrical system and any known issues.
• Heating and cooling systems, including the age and condition of the furnace and air conditioning units.
• Plumbing system, including the water heater and any known leaks or malfunctions.
• Sewage system, whether it is connected to a public sewer or a private septic system, and any known issues.

1. Environmental Hazards:

• Presence of asbestos, radon, lead-based paint, or other hazardous materials.
• History of underground storage tanks on the property.

1. Appliances and Fixtures:

• Condition of appliances that are included in the sale, such as the stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, and washer/dryer.
• Fixtures such as water softeners, garbage disposals, and smoke detectors.

1. Legal Issues and Restrictions:

• Any pending legal actions or disputes involving the property.
• Zoning violations or non-conforming uses.
• Property boundaries and any encroachments or easements.

1. Water-Related Issues:

• Type of water source (e.g., well, municipal).
• Water quality and any known contaminants.
• History of water damage or mold.

1. Additional Property Information:

• Age of the property and any major renovations or repairs.
• Pest infestations (current or past).
• Any other material defects that could affect the property’s value or desirability.

Lead-Based Paint Disclosure

For homes built before 1978, federal law requires sellers to provide a Lead-Based Paint Disclosure. This involves:

• Disclosing any known information about the presence of lead-based paint in the home.
• Providing the buyer with an EPA-approved pamphlet on identifying and managing lead-based paint hazards.
• Giving buyers a 10-day period to conduct a lead-based paint inspection or risk assessment.

Importance of Full Disclosure

Sellers must answer all questions on the disclosure statement truthfully and to the best of their k

Michigan’s disclosure requirements are designed to protect both buyers and sellers by promoting transparency in real estate transactions. Sellers should take these obligations seriously and provide comprehensive and honest information about their property to avoid legal complications and ensure a smooth sale process.