Hidden defects when buying a house? Get free advice!

Questioner

Hidden defects? During the renovation of the bathroom in our newly purchased house we discovered that there was a leak. A new pipe was connected to an old drain. The contractor indicated that there was a leak in the old drain. This was also confirmed by an independent party. We discovered this by using the bath. It can be seen that the spot where the leak is has already been repainted and plastered with other plasterwork. This became visible after the water damage. Everything shows that the previous occupant was aware of the leak and did not report this during the sale. The previous occupant was contacted. He denied the above and indicated that the leak must have been caused by the renovation. A bucket was also found in the attic (behind bulkheads) and a tarpaulin. The previous occupant was also confronted about this. He indicated that he was indeed aware of this and that he had placed it here as a measure in case of a very strong storm. He indicated that he was aware of this, but this was not communicated during the sale. What could be the next step? And is there a chance that we can recover something from the previous occupant? Yours sincerely,

Lawyer

If there is an NVM contract, the seller's liability for damage is excluded. If you have had a building inspection carried out, you have fulfilled your duty to investigate. If the seller knew about the leak and you can prove this in your explanation, the seller is liable for this damage. You can hold him liable in writing by registered mail to repair the damage within a certain period, failing which you will have this done at his expense.