Liability in the sale of a home | Legal aid

Questioner

Sold house There has been a final inspection and Signed Now the buyer comes back with defects Water pipe burst taps that leak He wants to pass the costs on to me Is that possible?

Lawyer

The buyer has a duty to investigate and depending on the condition, age and year of construction of the house, he could have had a building inspection carried out. On the other hand, you have a duty to report the defects that are known to you. Although you as a seller can also be held liable for defects that prevent normal use, e.g. burst pipes, the buyer could have done more research into this. In short, it depends on the agreements made or any guarantee given regarding the pipes whether you are liable.

Questioner

No agreements have been made about warranty piping I have verbally reported defects that I am aware of Buyer has not had any research carried out. Has signed for approval during final inspection And a notary asked if everything was in order I have no idea what else could go wrong. ....

Questioner

How long can the buyer hold me liable for things that hinder normal use? I can't know what else could go wrong

Lawyer

If no (contractual NVM?)) agreements have been made, the buyer can appeal to the fact that the house does not correspond to the agreement. The buyer cannot complain indefinitely, but must do so within 2 months after discovery. In short, it depends on the provisions in the contract and the buyer's duty to investigate whether you are liable.

Questioner

How long can the buyer hold me liable for things that hinder normal use? I can't know what else could go wrong

Lawyer

In principle, a maximum of 2 months after discovery of the defect.