We recently purchased a home that came with significant problems we weren't made aware of. During the inspection, there were no major red flags, just a few minor issues. After the seller's lease back was up, we discovered holes in drywall, a nasty carpet, and that the seller failed to disclose a non-working water heater. Now, just a week after moving in, we're dealing with sewage backing up through the drains, covering our new bathrooms and causing severe water damage throughout the house. We're worried about mold and hope our homeowners insurance will cover the repairs. Should we have been alerted to these problems during the inspection? Is there any recourse against the seller? How do we handle this situation with small children in the house?
3 Answers
I'm so sorry you’re experiencing all this. It’s a nightmare for any new homeowner. The advice about getting a separate inspection for major systems in the home is spot on. If you think the sewage issues are related to a blockage, maybe consider having your main sewer line scoped before jumping to conclusions about repairs. Just make sure you’re getting consistent updates from your contractor. Have you checked with your realtor about the inspector they recommended? They might have some responsibility in this too.
Good point! Your realtor should be able to provide clarity on who the inspector was and their qualifications. It's worth looking into.
First time homebuyer here? I gotta tell you, this can be a harsh welcome to homeownership. I would push back on just replacing fixtures, especially if they say they're salvageable. As for the sewage, clearly getting a plumber involved was smart. Make sure to get any assessments in writing—those can be valuable if you're looking to pursue any legal action.
Yes! It’s such a learning experience. And you have the right instincts to question everything that contractor said. Make sure they are just not trying to upsell you.
Absolutely, and try to remain calm. It feels overwhelming now, but you'll get through this. Just take it step by step.
Oh man, that sounds so tough! It seems like you were really in love with the house and maybe overlooked some big issues. Unfortunately, this might be a classic case of the inspector missing the signs. Do you have proof of these problems from your contractor? You might want to consult a real estate lawyer about your options against the seller for not disclosing issues. Keep all the documentation you can, including notes from the contractor.
Exactly! Document everything and make sure you have everything in writing. It could help if you decide to take legal action.
Yeah, I totally agree. Also, keep in mind that sometimes it’s smart to bring in independent inspectors for critical systems like plumbing and roofing.
For sure, it’s good to know where your inspector came from. Sometimes, they're shielded from liability, but it’s worth investigating.