Hidden defects when buying a home: What to do?

Questioner

Good afternoon, I bought a house. The day after moving in, a leak developed after turning on the washing machine in the attic. The water entered the meter cupboard, among other things, causing it to malfunction. We couldn't live in our house for a week until it was replaced. The water also ended up in the kitchen and ran out the front of the house. The plumber has now determined that the washing machine drain is blocked somewhere in the middle of the house; it's been sawn off. This likely happened when the previous owners renovated their bathroom two years ago. The previous owners used the washing machine connection downstairs, not the one in the attic. However, they did indicate during viewings that the washing machine connection in the attic could also be used. This was also stated in the real estate agent's description of the property. I suspect this is a latent defect. The defect wasn't visible to us, and both the sellers and the real estate agent promised us that the connection could be used. Moreover, I think the sellers should reasonably have known about this defect. Is it true that this is a latent defect? Thank you in advance for your help!

Questioner

There may be a hidden defect. The sellers were likely aware of the leak or sawn-off connection and didn't disclose it. In principle, they are liable for this unless they prove otherwise. Based on your duty to investigate, you may be accused of investigating this to prevent problems. However, you can rely on the seller's statements. I recommend holding the sellers liable in writing. If you can't reach an agreement (yet) and a legal dispute arises, please contact me for consultation. Click the direct contact button next to this answer under my name.

Questioner

I doubt this is a hidden defect, as there was another connection present. The house was still habitable until the meter box flooded. That's consequential damage. It's possible both parties were mistaken, but it's still a reason to write to them, for example, to share the costs of the damage.