Connecticut requires sellers to complete a Residential Property Condition Disclosure Report before listing, plus a federal Lead-Based Paint Disclosure for homes built before 1978.
What is the Connecticut Residential Property Condition Disclosure Report?
The Property Condition Disclosure Report is a state-mandated form that sellers complete based on their own knowledge of the property. It covers:
- Roof condition and any known leaks
- Foundation and structural issues
- Basement water intrusion or flooding history
- Plumbing and water supply systems
- Electrical system condition
- Heating, cooling, and HVAC systems
- Sewage / septic systems
- Environmental issues: underground storage tanks, asbestos, radon, wetlands
- Zoning and permit issues for additions or improvements
You answer each question based on what you know. You are not required to hire an inspector to complete it — but you cannot knowingly answer falsely.
What is the lead paint disclosure requirement?
Federal law (the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act) requires sellers of homes built before 1978 to:
- Provide buyers with the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home"
- Disclose any known lead-based paint hazards in the property
- Give buyers a 10-day window to test for lead paint before finalizing the sale
This applies to every pre-1978 residential property in Connecticut (and nationally). Your agent provides the form as part of the standard listing package.
What are the consequences of not disclosing?
Connecticut buyers who discover an undisclosed material defect after closing can pursue claims of misrepresentation or fraud. There is no statute of limitations that protects you from a lawsuit for knowingly concealing a defect. The safest approach: disclose what you know accurately and completely, and keep copies of all disclosure forms you provided. If you're uncertain whether something needs to be disclosed, consult your Connecticut real estate attorney before listing.
What doesn't have to be disclosed in Connecticut?
Connecticut does not require disclosure of stigmatizing facts — including deaths that occurred on the property, whether a prior occupant had HIV/AIDS, or that the property is alleged to be haunted — unless the buyer asks directly. You are also not obligated to investigate unknown defects; you disclose what you know.
Selling in Stamford and want to make sure you're covered?
I'll walk you through the disclosure forms as part of the listing process and connect you with a local real estate attorney for any legal questions specific to your situation.
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FAQ
Do I have to disclose a death in the house when selling in Connecticut?
Connecticut law does not require disclosure of deaths that occurred in a property unless you are directly asked by the buyer. However, if a buyer asks directly, you should answer honestly to avoid claims of misrepresentation. Your real estate attorney can advise on the specific circumstances.
What happens if I don't disclose something when selling my home in Connecticut?
Failing to disclose a known material defect in Connecticut can expose you to buyer claims of misrepresentation or fraud after closing, even if the sale is complete. Buyers who discover undisclosed material defects may pursue damages through legal action. The best protection is accurate, complete disclosure and keeping copies of all forms provided to buyers. Consult a Connecticut real estate attorney if you're uncertain about what to disclose in your specific situation.
Does Connecticut require lead paint disclosure when selling?
Federal law — not just Connecticut — requires sellers to provide a Lead-Based Paint Disclosure for homes built before 1978. This applies to all residential properties in Connecticut (and nationally) built before 1978. You must provide the EPA's lead-based paint pamphlet, disclose any known lead hazards, and give buyers a 10-day window to test for lead before finalizing the sale.