Скачать или смотреть Lying on property disclosures? Rules in Michigan and Ohio

In the real estate markets of Michigan and Ohio, transparency is mandated by law to protect both buyers and sellers. Under the Michigan Seller Disclosure Act (MCL 565.951) and the Ohio Residential Property Disclosure Form (ORC 5302.30), sellers of 1-to-4 family homes must provide a written statement detailing the property’s condition. This form covers everything from structural integrity and mechanical systems to environmental hazards like lead paint or radon gas.

Many sellers are surprised to learn that while the law doesn't require them to go "searching" for new problems, they cannot legally ignore or conceal issues they already know about. If you've lived in the house and experienced a flooded basement or a pest infestation, you must check the "Yes" box. However, there are significant exemptions for certain probate transfers, foreclosures, or transfers between family members where the seller may not have lived in the home recently.

In this video, a Michigan and Ohio attorney explains how property disclosure statements work under Michigan and Ohio law. We look at the "Actual Knowledge" standard: you aren't liable for what you don't know, but "silent fraud"—intentionally staying quiet about a major defect—can lead to a judge ordering you to pay for the buyer's repairs and legal fees. Whether you are a seller worried about "scaring off" buyers or a buyer who just found a hidden nightmare, understanding these mandatory forms is the only way to ensure a legally sound closing.

✅ In this video, a Michigan and Ohio attorney explains how property disclosure statements work under Michigan and Ohio law.

Disclaimer: This video is for educational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Among legal topics covered in this video:

Material Defects: Defining what constitutes a "significant" issue that impacts a home's value or safety.

The "Actual Knowledge" Test: Why sellers aren't required to hire inspectors to find new problems before filling out the form.

Disclosure Exemptions: Who is legally excused from providing a statement (e.g., executors, trustees, and certain family transfers)?

Silent Fraud: The legal consequences of intentionally hiding a known defect to close a deal.

Stigmatized Property Rules: Why you generally don't have to disclose deaths or "ghosts" in Michigan and Ohio.

Rescission Rights: How a buyer can back out of a contract if the disclosure statement isn't provided on time.

Michigan & Ohio attorney David Soble and the Soble Law team are dedicated to the success of their clients in the areas of real estate, contracts, and financial disputes. As part of our commitment, we actively write, publish, and create books, articles, podcasts, slide presentations, and newsletters—all designed to simplify complicated legal concepts related to real estate and finance.

We strive to make these resources user-friendly and practical so that anyone with a legal concern can understand how to reduce their legal liability and financial exposure.

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