Hidden defects in a home, compensation for damages

Questioner

We recently bought a house. It is a house from the 90s (an older house). Since the moment I moved in, I have been experiencing a draft/chilly feeling in the living room of the house. No matter how much I stoke, it is not pleasant. Sitting on the couch is downright unpleasant. A blower door test to look for air leaks indicated that there was nothing that could be the direct cause of this. No major air leaks could be found. The house has 2 large extensions (this is also where the living room is partly located). Cold air comes from the sockets and central boxes of these extensions. Not bad enough for direct draft, but it does indicate that something is wrong. In other words, the insulation of the ceiling in particular seems to be greatly reduced by this cold air and can lead to draft again. I do not know this for sure, but I intend to find out. What I especially want to know now is whether I have a chance of recovering any costs from the previous residents. I estimate my chances to be low, because they lived with the extension for many years. However, I would like to have confirmation of this. I experience the complaints as so unpleasant that I am considering moving.

Lawyer

If you want to claim that, you must also provide evidence for your argument. Strictly speaking, it is not a hidden defect in the sense of the law. This requires that the home cannot be used normally due to the defect. (not occupied for living). It is also relevant whether you had reason to conduct further investigations regarding the defect before the purchase.