Seller Guide · Philadelphia Suburbs

    Do I Have to Disclose Past Repairs When I Sell My Home?

    Many sellers worry that admitting a past problem will scare buyers. In practice, the opposite is true: a disclosed, documented repair reads as responsible ownership, while an undiscovered-then-discovered problem reads as concealment. This guide explains what belongs on the disclosure and how to present repair history well.

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    Typical timeline: 7 days

    Step-by-Step

    1. 1

      Learn what the disclosure covers

      The Pennsylvania Real Estate Seller Disclosure form asks about the roof, basement, water intrusion, structure, systems like plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling, and other known issues. It asks what you know, not what you guess. Answer every question honestly based on your actual knowledge. When you are unsure how to answer something, ask your agent or an attorney rather than leaving it blank.

    2. 2

      Disclose repaired problems with proof

      If the basement took on water five years ago and you installed a French drain that solved it, that story belongs on the disclosure with the invoice attached. Buyers find past repairs reassuring when they come with paperwork: who did the work, when, and whether a warranty transfers. The same fact without disclosure becomes a lawsuit risk after closing.

    3. 3

      Gather your repair records

      Before listing, collect invoices, permits, and warranties for significant work: roof, HVAC, water heater, electrical, waterproofing, and additions. Organized records answer buyer questions before they become objections and support your price. If you cannot find paperwork for permitted work, your municipality can often confirm permit history.

    4. 4

      Never guess or hide

      If you do not know whether something was done correctly, say you do not know. If you know about a problem, disclose it even if it seems minor or long resolved. Disclosure is about what you know, and the standard is honesty, not perfection. Sellers who disclose fully almost never face post-closing claims; sellers who conceal known defects are the ones who do.

    A Worked Example

    Hypothetical example: A Wayne seller discloses a 2019 basement seepage repair, attaches the waterproofing invoice and transferable warranty, and notes five dry years since. The buyer's inspector confirms the system, and the issue never comes up in negotiation.

    Your Checklist

    • Answer every disclosure question honestly
    • Disclose repaired problems, not just current ones
    • Attach invoices, permits, and warranties
    • Check municipal permit records if unsure
    • Say unknown when you truly do not know
    • Keep copies of everything you provide

    Common Pitfalls to Avoid

    • Leaving disclosure questions blank instead of answering honestly
    • Hiding a repaired problem that neighbors or records can reveal
    • Throwing away repair invoices before the sale

    Common Questions

    Rarely. Buyers expect older homes to have history. A repaired, documented issue with years of dry performance is far less scary than a fresh stain with no explanation.

    You still disclose what you know. Estate executors and distant owners answer to the best of their knowledge, which may be limited. The form allows for that honesty.

    No. The disclosure shares your knowledge; the inspection gives the buyer an independent look. Both happen in a normal sale, and they work together.

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