Bowie, Maryland Real Estate Attorney for Property Conditions

Dedicated Lawyer Resolving Property Condition Disputes in Bowie, MD

If you are like many people, buying a home or commercial property is by far the largest purchase you will ever make. You can make a visual inspection, and you may even hire a professional to inspect the property, but you also expect the seller to tell you about any known issues that could affect the property's viability as a sound investment. Latent defects can decrease property values, pose safety risks, and prevent you from using the property as expected. If the seller knew or should have known about those defects, but they failed to disclose them, Attorney Hope Blocton can help you hold them accountable.

When you choose Bloc One Services, LLC, you are partnering with an attorney who is determined to win your case. We do a lot of preliminary work, including developing a firm understanding of your situation. With our investigation skills and comprehensive knowledge of real estate law, we are highly effective when building and presenting cases. We provide top-notch legal representation without the hefty price that many lawyers charge. Attorney Blocton will always protect your interests and give you the personal attention you deserve.

Understanding Latent Defects in Bowie, Maryland Real Estate Transactions

Aesthetic defects, such as smeared paint, do not truly affect a home's value or your ability to enjoy your new residence. Latent material defects, however, are those that a routine inspection may not reveal, whether the seller intentionally attempted to hide them or not. Material defects can undermine the structural integrity of a building, pose health and safety risks, and cost a great deal to repair. Common latent material defects include:

  • Major roof leaks
  • The presence of lead paint, mold, asbestos, or other dangerous substances
  • Old or faulty electrical wiring or plumbing
  • Cracked or otherwise damaged foundations
  • Structural integrity issues, such as rotting support beams

A home does not have to be old to have latent defects. Newly constructed houses can also have these issues due to shoddy workmanship or defective materials.

When You Can Address Latent Defects and Subpar Property Conditions in Maryland

In some cases, you may not immediately realize your home or building has latent defects. For example, your roof may leak only when heavy rains hit it from a certain direction. Until the weather conditions reveal the leak, you probably do not know it is there.

Even if the property you bought was sold as-is, the seller had a legal obligation to disclose any latent defects they knew or should have known about. Unless your contract specifically states otherwise, you can pursue a claim against the seller to recover the costs of making necessary repairs.

It is important to contact us right away if you discover a latent defect in the property you purchased. You have a limited time from when you become aware of or should have become aware of the defect to bring a claim, whether it would be handled through mediation or a civil lawsuit.

We will investigate your situation, including the extent of the defect, the ways in which it has cost you, and whether the seller knew or should have known about it. Because we thoroughly understand real estate law, we can explain the options you have. We will help you decide how to proceed, and we will be by your side throughout your case.

Call Our Bowie Real Estate Lawyer for Property Defects

When latent defects threaten your investment, Bloc One Services, LLC will take the appropriate action to hold the seller liable. We assist property owners in Washington D.C. and those in and around Prince George's, Montgomery, and Charles Counties. Call 240-200-0076 or contact us online to arrange for your free initial consultation.

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