Seller Beware

A recent High Court case, Iya Patarkatsishvili & Vevhen Hunyak v William Woodward-Fisher, is a clear warning for anyone selling property. It highlights how important it is for sellers to be honest and upfront about any issues with their property. If you fail to share key information, you could face serious legal consequences. At Cullimore Dutton, we’re here to help you understand your legal responsibilities and avoid costly mistakes.

What the Case Was About

The case involved a dispute where the seller did not disclose important information about the property. The buyers alleged that the seller’s failure to share these details amounted to misrepresentation. The court agreed with the buyers, ruling that the seller was legally responsible for the lack of transparency. This decision highlights the importance of full disclosure and the risks sellers face if they fail to provide essential information.

Here are the main lessons from the case.

You Must Share Important Information

When selling a property, you must be open about anything that could affect its value or the buyer’s decision. This includes things like building problems, ongoing disputes, or legal restrictions.

Hiding Information Can Be Costly

If you don’t disclose important facts, the buyer may be able to cancel the sale or claim financial compensation. In this case, the seller was found liable because they failed to reveal important information that would have affected the buyer’s decision.

Check Everything Before Selling

Before you put your property on the market, check all the details carefully. When filling out forms like the Property Information Form, make sure your answers are truthful and accurate to avoid future problems.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re selling a property, this case shows how important it is to be honest and thorough. Here’s how to protect yourself:

Be Honest and Open

Always tell buyers about any known problems or issues with the property. Keeping things hidden could lead to legal trouble later.

Get Legal Advice

Work with experienced property lawyers to make sure your paperwork is complete and accurate. This can help prevent future disputes.

Answer Buyer Questions Carefully

When buyers ask questions, make sure your answers are clear, truthful, and supported by evidence.

Keep Records

Keep a record of everything you share with the buyer, including any repairs or updates. This documentation can protect you if a dispute arises.

Selling a property can be complicated, and the rules are always changing. This recent court case is a reminder that honesty and accuracy are crucial.

For a FREE initial consultation with our expert Residential Conveyancing team, call us on 01244 356 789 or email info@cullimoredutton.co.uk.