What to do if we are under contract on a property and due to close next month but we just found out that a brutal and bloody murder took place inside the home?
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What to do if we are under contract on a property and due to close next month but we just found out that a brutal and bloody murder took place inside the home?
The body was then taken out into the backyard and burned in a firepit. None of this information was disclosed prior to contract; we found out about it online. Will we lose our deposit if we back out based on biohazard and environmental issues?
Asked on October 23, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Florida
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
First of all, aside from any biohazard/enviornmental claim, many jurisdictions require disclosure of any deaths that occurred on the property. If you were not so informed, whether intentional or not, you most likely have the right to cancel the transaction and receive a refund of your deposit (and quite possiblity any out of pocker expenses such as inspection fees and the like). What you need to do now is to contact a local real estate atorrney in your area; when you do be sure to bring a copy of your contract with you so that they can review it.
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