When should I disclose a leak?

freesha

You need to get it fixed. There is a legal obligation to get leaks on private supplies fixed to avoid water waste.

CodeMatcha

lucypilates said:

I think that if the property is sold as a doer-upper then you can communicate that via the price , marketing material and through the EA who is doing the viewings. Presumably you have no idea as to the extent of works/repairs that may be required but I would say something along the lines that ‘you haven’t lived there personally and don’t know the current status of the electrics, plumbing or other services and would expect that whoever buys it, is likely going to have to address any issues that may arise and at present time I am aware there is a leak when the blah blah... so that will definitely need attention which is reflected in the price’

 you EA may suggest you don’t mention anything (like mine did) based on the fact that if you’re not asked, you don’t have to say anything! I had a previous roof leak which I’ve now had repaired but of course, I don’t truly know that it’s been a success until time has passed and there’s no new water ingress ... so there has to be a cut off of responsibility.

basically, you could sell your property today and it springs a new leak tomorrow ... buyers must take that on board too ... sometimes, it’s not about being deceitful!! 

Just be honest and if there are no takers, get the leak sorted and sell it with a receipt for the work ... 

thanks .

I have told the EA to inform them during the offer stage. I didn’t want to ruin the excitement of viewing by handing them a list of problems - especially when I expect them to replace the sink anyway.

lots of interest so far, so hopefully that is a good sign! 

jbainbridge

Just get it fixed. You're just being lazy. Even if buyers intend to replace the kitchen .. very few have the money to do it literally on day 1.

Either that or tell them during the viewing.