Is a Seller Obligated to Disclose Apartment Defects? (709)
When selling an apartment in Israel, an important legal and ethical aspect is the seller’s obligation to disclose known defects.
Failure to do so can lead to a canceled transaction, lawsuits, or financial losses.
This article explains which defects should be disclosed, how to properly inform the buyer, and what measures protect the seller.
Defects That Must Be Disclosed
- Structural and Construction Defects
- Problems with the foundation, walls, roof, balcony, or tiling.
- Issues with Engineering Systems
- Heating, plumbing, electricity, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
- Moisture and Mold
- Serious signs of dampness or mold affecting health or property value.
- Legal or Documentation Issues
- Illegal renovations, encumbrances, disputes with neighbors or municipal authorities.
- Any Known Safety Hazards
- For example, leaking roof, broken elevator, or unstable structures.
How to Properly Disclose Defects
- Include defect information in the purchase agreement
- Inform potential buyers honestly about significant issues before showing the apartment
- Provide documents or expert reports confirming the apartment’s condition
- Consult an attorney if necessary to draft accurate and clear statements
Consequences of Non-Disclosure
- Transaction Cancellation
- The buyer may withdraw if hidden defects are discovered.
- Lawsuits
- The seller may be held liable for concealment and required to compensate for damages.
- Loss of Trust
- Reputation and sale speed may suffer if information is hidden.
Tips from Unehasim
- Always disclose known defects: it protects you and speeds up the sale
- Obtain an independent assessment of the apartment’s condition before listing
- Include defect information in the agreement and all marketing materials
- Work with an experienced attorney to ensure proper documentation
Proper disclosure helps sell an apartment safely, quickly, and with minimal risk.
Contact Unehasim Specialists
If you plan to sell an apartment in Haifa and want to ensure all defects are disclosed correctly, Unehasim specialists can help:
- Conduct legal and technical inspections
- Prepare defect information for the agreement
- Develop a sales strategy minimizing risks
- Ensure a secure and transparent transaction
