Do I Need a Lawyer for Non-Disclosure in Real Estate?

It’s one thing to find a minor issue after moving in; it’s another to uncover evidence of an intentional cover-up. Fresh paint over a massive water stain or new drywall strategically placed to hide a foundation crack are not honest mistakes—they are red flags for deception. A seller who knowingly conceals a major defect is not only being unethical but is also breaking the law. Proving what a seller knew and when they knew it is the key to a successful claim. This is where professional legal help becomes essential. A lawyer for non-disclosure in real estate specializes in investigating these claims, gathering the necessary evidence, and building a compelling case to prove the seller’s dishonesty.

Key Takeaways

• Sellers Have a Legal Duty to Disclose: In Florida, sellers can’t just stay quiet about major issues. They are legally required to inform you of any known defects that materially affect the property’s value and aren’t easy to spot, ensuring you have the facts before you buy.
• Document Everything and Act Quickly: The moment you find a potential hidden defect, your first step is to document it thoroughly with photos, videos, and notes. Florida has strict legal deadlines, so addressing the issue promptly is critical to protecting your right to seek compensation.
• A Specialist Attorney is Your Strongest Asset: Proving a seller intentionally hid a problem is a complex legal fight. Partnering with an attorney who specializes in real estate litigation is the most effective way to build a strong case, manage the legal process, and recover the costs for repairs.

What is Real Estate Non-Disclosure?

When you buy a property, you expect the seller to be upfront about its condition. Real estate non-disclosure happens when a seller intentionally hides or fails to mention significant problems with the property—facts that would likely affect its value or your decision to buy it. This isn’t about minor cosmetic issues; we’re talking about “material facts” like a cracked foundation, a history of flooding, or unpermitted renovations. The core of the issue is deception. The seller knows about a serious defect but chooses not to tell you, leaving you to discover it after the deal is done.

This can turn the excitement of a new home into a financial and emotional nightmare. Suddenly, you’re facing unexpected, expensive repairs for a problem you had no way of knowing about. Florida law takes this very seriously, creating specific obligations for sellers to ensure a fair and transparent transaction. Understanding these rules is the first step in protecting yourself, whether you’re buying your dream home or selling a property.

What Florida Law Requires Sellers to Disclose

In Florida, the law is clear: sellers have a duty to disclose any known facts that materially affect the value of the property and are not readily observable by the buyer. This means if a seller knows about a leaky roof, persistent plumbing problems, structural issues, or even past termite damage, they must inform the potential buyer. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a legal obligation. The key here is “known facts.” A seller isn’t expected to be a home inspector or disclose issues they are genuinely unaware of. However, they cannot play ignorant about problems they have lived with or previously repaired. Navigating these disclosure requirements is a critical part of any Florida real estate transaction.

Why Full Disclosure Matters to You

Full disclosure is the bedrock of a fair real estate deal. For buyers, it provides the crucial information needed to make a confident and informed purchase. It allows you to assess the true condition and value of a property and decide if you’re willing to take on any necessary repairs. For sellers, being transparent protects you from future legal battles. Disputes over non-disclosure are incredibly common and can lead to costly lawsuits, potentially forcing you to pay for repairs or even reverse the sale. Following the rules isn’t just about avoiding liability; it’s about upholding your end of the contract and ensuring the transaction is smooth and legally sound for everyone involved.

Common Problems Sellers Hide

When you buy a property, you expect the seller to be upfront about its condition. Florida law requires sellers to disclose known defects that could materially affect the property’s value and aren’t readily observable. Unfortunately, not every seller plays by the rules. Some may intentionally conceal serious problems to close a deal, leaving you with unexpected and expensive repairs. Discovering these hidden issues after you’ve moved in can be incredibly frustrating and financially draining.

These aren’t minor cosmetic flaws; we’re talking about significant defects that can impact your home’s safety and structural integrity. From a cracked foundation cleverly hidden behind new drywall to a history of flooding that was never mentioned, these omissions can turn your dream home into a nightmare. Understanding the most common types of hidden defects is the first step in protecting yourself. If you suspect a seller has been dishonest, it’s important to know what to look for and how an experienced real estate litigation attorney can help you explore your options.

Structural and Foundation Issues

Some of the most expensive problems to fix are those related to a home’s core structure. Foundation cracks, shifting soil, wood rot, or termite damage can compromise the entire building’s stability. A seller might try to hide these issues with a quick cosmetic fix, like patching and painting over a significant crack or strategically placing furniture and rugs to cover uneven floors. These cover-ups are temporary solutions to permanent problems. Once you’ve purchased the home, the responsibility for these costly and complex repairs falls on you. Uncovering these defects after the sale can be a clear sign of non-disclosure.

Water Damage, Leaks, and Mold

Water is one of a home’s biggest enemies, and damage from it can be deceptively easy to hide. A fresh coat of paint can temporarily cover up ceiling stains from a leaky roof, and new flooring can conceal evidence of past flooding or a cracked slab. Sellers may fail to disclose ongoing plumbing leaks or previous water intrusion that led to mold growth within the walls. Mold not only damages the structure but can also pose serious health risks. If you discover musty smells, soft spots in the walls, or warped flooring after moving in, it could point to a water-related issue the seller knew about but chose not to reveal.

Pest Infestations and Environmental Hazards

A seller has a duty to disclose known pest problems, such as a history of termites, carpenter ants, or rodents. Simply spraying for bugs before a showing doesn’t solve an underlying infestation, and failing to disclose it is a major omission. Similarly, environmental hazards must be revealed. This includes the presence of lead-based paint, asbestos, radon gas, or contaminated soil. These issues can be expensive to remediate and can affect your family’s health. A seller who is aware of these hazards but stays silent is putting you at risk, and our team of experienced attorneys can help you hold them accountable.

Faulty Electrical and Plumbing Systems

Problems with a home’s essential systems can be both dangerous and expensive. Faulty or outdated electrical wiring is a significant fire hazard, while failing plumbing can lead to extensive water damage. A seller might know that the circuit breaker constantly trips or that the pipes are corroded but choose not to disclose these facts. Issues with a septic system or main sewer line are other common hidden defects. Because these systems are largely hidden behind walls and underground, buyers often have to rely on the seller’s honesty. When that trust is broken, you are left to deal with the consequences.

What Are Your Legal Options if a Seller Hides Defects?

Discovering a major problem in your new home that the seller didn’t mention is incredibly frustrating. It can feel like a betrayal of trust and a financial nightmare. The good news is that you aren’t without options. Florida law provides several legal pathways for buyers who have been misled. Depending on the specifics of your situation, you may be able to hold the seller accountable for their failure to disclose known issues. Understanding these options is the first step toward making things right.

Proving Fraud and Seller Knowledge

One of the strongest claims you can make is for fraud. This isn’t just about the seller failing to mention a problem; it’s about them actively and intentionally hiding it. To win a fraud case, you typically need to prove that the seller knew about the defect, knew it was significant, and purposely concealed it from you. For example, if they painted over a water stain right before the open house, that could be evidence of intentional concealment. Proving what someone knew can be challenging, which is why gathering strong evidence with the help of an experienced real estate litigation attorney is so important for this type of claim.

Filing for Negligence or Breach of Contract

Not every non-disclosure case rises to the level of intentional fraud. Sometimes, a seller’s failure to disclose is due to carelessness, which may fall under negligence. In other cases, the issue is a breach of contract. Your purchase agreement and the seller’s disclosure form are legal documents. If the seller stated in the disclosure that there were no roof leaks, but you discover extensive water damage from a long-standing issue, they have likely breached the terms of your contract. This can provide a more direct path to a legal remedy because it focuses on the promises made in the sale documents rather than proving the seller’s intent to deceive you.

Seeking Rescission or Monetary Damages

If you successfully prove your case, the court can award different types of relief. The most common is monetary damages, which is money paid by the seller to cover the cost of repairs, your loss in property value, and potentially other related expenses. In very serious cases of non-disclosure where the defect fundamentally changes the nature of the property, you might be able to seek “rescission.” This is a legal remedy that effectively cancels the sale, returns the property to the seller, and gives you your money back. An attorney can help you determine which remedy is the most appropriate and achievable for your real estate dispute.

Using Florida’s Consumer Protection Laws

Beyond contract and fraud law, Florida has specific statutes designed to protect consumers from deceptive and unfair trade practices. These laws can apply to real estate transactions. A seller who knowingly hides a significant defect, like a cracked foundation or a termite infestation, isn’t just breaching a contract—they may also be violating state consumer protection laws. These statutes can provide another powerful tool for holding sellers accountable and may even allow you to recover attorney’s fees if you win your case. If you believe you’ve been a victim of a deceptive practice, it’s wise to contact a lawyer to explore all your legal protections.

How a Real Estate Lawyer Can Help Your Case

Discovering a hidden defect in your new home can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to handle it alone. A real estate lawyer acts as your advocate, strategist, and guide, turning a complex legal problem into a clear, manageable process. From the moment you suspect non-disclosure, an attorney can step in to protect your interests and work toward a resolution. They handle the intricate details, from digging into the evidence to facing the other party in negotiations, so you can focus on what’s next. With an experienced professional on your side, you gain the confidence and support needed to hold the seller accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.

Investigating Your Claim and Gathering Evidence

The first thing a lawyer will do is a deep dive into the facts of your case. This involves more than just looking at your purchase agreement. They will help you gather crucial evidence, such as photos, repair receipts, and communications with the seller, to build a timeline. A key part of this is determining whether the seller knew about the defect and intentionally hid it. An experienced real estate attorney knows what to look for, from previous inspection reports to city permits, to uncover proof of the seller’s knowledge. Acting quickly is essential, and bringing in legal counsel ensures your investigation starts on the right foot.

Coordinating with Experts and Inspectors

Proving a non-disclosure claim often requires more than just your word. Your lawyer will coordinate with a network of trusted professionals, including certified home inspectors, engineers, and contractors, to assess the defect. These experts can provide official reports and testimony that detail the extent of the problem, its likely cause, and the cost of repairs. Your attorney manages these relationships, ensuring the inspections are thorough and the findings are properly documented to support your legal claim. This expert evidence is often the backbone of a successful case, providing the objective proof needed to validate your position.

Negotiating a Fair Settlement

Many non-disclosure disputes are resolved outside of court. A skilled lawyer is also a strategic negotiator who can communicate with the seller or their attorney on your behalf. They will present the evidence clearly and make a compelling argument for why you are entitled to compensation. Their goal is to reach a fair settlement that covers your repair costs and other damages without the time and expense of a trial. Having a legal professional handle these discussions prevents you from making costly mistakes and signals to the other party that you are serious about protecting your rights.

Representing You in Court

If a fair settlement can’t be reached, your lawyer is prepared to take your case to court. They will handle every aspect of the litigation process, from filing the official complaint to arguing your case before a judge. Throughout the proceedings, your attorney acts as your dedicated champion, ensuring your story is heard and your rights are protected. Whether you are seeking to cancel the sale entirely or recover monetary damages for repairs and legal fees, having one of our firm’s experienced attorneys in your corner provides the powerful representation needed to pursue a just outcome.

When Should You Call a Lawyer About a Property Defect?

Discovering a serious problem in your new property is incredibly stressful. You might wonder if it’s a big enough deal to involve a lawyer or if you should just handle the repairs yourself. While not every leaky faucet warrants a lawsuit, certain situations absolutely require legal advice to protect your investment. Knowing the signs can help you act decisively when it matters most.

Red Flags That Require Immediate Legal Advice

It’s one thing to find a minor issue the home inspector missed; it’s another to uncover a problem that feels intentionally hidden. If you suspect the seller knew about a defect and didn’t disclose it, it’s time to call a lawyer. Pay attention to red flags like finding evidence of a quick cover-up—such as fresh paint over significant water damage or new drywall patching a crack in the foundation. If a major system like the HVAC or plumbing fails right after you move in, and it’s clear the problem is old, that’s another sign. Trust your gut. If the situation feels dishonest, getting an expert opinion on your real estate law options is a smart first step.

Why Acting Quickly is So Important

When you find a hidden defect, the clock starts ticking. Acting quickly is crucial for several reasons. First, it allows you to preserve evidence. Before you begin any repairs, you need to document the problem thoroughly with photos, videos, and professional assessments. Delaying can make it harder to prove the defect existed at the time of sale. Second, unexpected repairs can be a huge financial burden. The sooner you address the issue legally, the sooner you can potentially recover the money you’re spending to fix a problem you didn’t create. Consulting with one of our attorneys promptly shows you are serious about protecting your rights and holding the seller accountable for their failure to disclose.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations

In Florida, you have a limited window of time to take legal action for non-disclosure. This deadline is called the statute of limitations. For claims based on fraud, you generally have four years from the time you discover the defect to file a lawsuit. For a breach of a written real estate contract, the limit is five years. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to sue the seller for damages, no matter how strong your case is. This is why it’s so important not to wait. If you’ve found a significant hidden issue, contact us to understand your timeline and make sure you don’t forfeit your legal rights.

How to Choose the Right Real Estate Lawyer

Finding out a seller wasn’t truthful about the home you just bought is incredibly stressful. The last thing you need is more stress from choosing the wrong legal partner. Selecting the right attorney is the most critical step you can take to protect your investment and hold the seller accountable. Think of this process as hiring a key team member for a very important project—your financial well-being. You need someone with the right skills, a clear communication style, and a proven history of success in cases just like yours. Let’s walk through what to look for to ensure you find an advocate who can effectively fight for you.

Look for a Specialist in Real Estate Law

You wouldn’t see a foot doctor for a heart problem, and the same logic applies to law. While many attorneys can handle general legal matters, Florida’s real estate laws are intricate and have specific nuances. A lawyer who specializes in real estate litigation lives and breathes these complexities every day. They understand the specific requirements of the Johnson v. Davis ruling, know the local judges, and are familiar with the tactics opposing attorneys use in disclosure disputes. A specialist brings a depth of knowledge that can be the deciding factor in your case, saving you time, money, and frustration down the road.

Prioritize Clear Communication and Sharp Analysis

Your attorney should be your translator, not someone who leaves you more confused. They need to explain complex legal concepts in a way that makes sense to you, keeping you informed and empowered at every stage. During your initial consultation, pay attention to how they listen and respond to your questions. Do you feel heard? Beyond that, look for sharp analytical skills. A great real estate lawyer can see the entire chessboard, anticipate the other side’s moves, and develop a strategy that puts you in the strongest possible position to win.

Ask About Their Track Record with Disclosure Cases

Don’t be shy about asking for specifics. A confident attorney will be open about their experience. You have every right to ask questions like, “How many non-disclosure cases have you handled in the past few years?” and “What were the general outcomes of those cases?” While every case is unique, this line of questioning helps you gauge their direct experience with your exact problem. You want to find experienced attorneys who have successfully guided other homeowners through this challenging process, from investigation and negotiation to, if necessary, a courtroom trial.

Verify Their Professional Reputation and Integrity

An attorney’s reputation within the legal community can speak volumes. Look for a professional who is respected for their integrity and ethical approach. You can check online reviews and testimonials, but also verify their standing with The Florida Bar. Most importantly, trust your gut. You need a lawyer who will be honest with you about the strengths and weaknesses of your case and who will act in your best interest at all times. This foundation of trust is essential for a successful attorney-client relationship, especially when the stakes are so high.

How Much Does a Real Estate Attorney Cost?

When you’ve just discovered a major problem with your new home, the thought of adding legal fees to your expenses can feel overwhelming. It’s completely understandable to worry about the cost. However, understanding how attorneys structure their fees can help demystify the process and show you that hiring professional help is often more accessible than you might think.

The goal is to find an attorney who is transparent about their pricing so you can make an informed decision without any surprises. Most real estate lawyers are upfront about their costs and can explain the potential financial outcomes of your case, allowing you to weigh the expense against the protection and peace of mind they provide.

Understanding Fee Structures and Payment Options

Let’s break down the common ways real estate attorneys charge for their services. In Florida, you’ll typically encounter a few different models. Some attorneys charge an hourly rate, which can range from $200 to $600, depending on their experience and the complexity of your case. This is common for ongoing disputes where the time needed is unpredictable.

For more straightforward services, many attorneys offer a flat fee. This is a single, predetermined price for a specific task, like handling a real estate closing, which might cost between $750 and $1,500. The best way to get clarity is to contact a law firm directly and ask about the fee structure for your specific situation.

Balancing Legal Costs with Your Potential Recovery

While it’s easy to focus on the upfront cost, it’s more helpful to see a lawyer’s fee as an investment in protecting your property. A hidden defect, like a cracked foundation or a leaky roof, can lead to tens of thousands of dollars in repairs. When you compare that to the cost of legal representation, the value becomes clear.

For example, a legal fee of $1,500 on a $300,000 home is just 0.5% of the property’s value. This small fraction can be the difference between you covering a $30,000 repair bill out-of-pocket or successfully holding the seller accountable for those damages. An experienced attorney specializing in Florida real estate law works to recover costs that far exceed their fees, protecting your financial future.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Non-Disclosure Claim

Discovering a hidden defect in your new property is frustrating enough. The legal process that follows can feel even more overwhelming, but you can set yourself up for a stronger case by sidestepping a few common pitfalls. When you’re dealing with a seller’s failure to disclose, every step you take matters. From the moment you suspect an issue, your actions can either strengthen or weaken your potential claim.

The key is to be deliberate and strategic. Many buyers, understandably upset, make emotional decisions that can complicate things later. By avoiding these frequent missteps, you can protect your rights and work toward a fair resolution. An experienced real estate attorney can guide you through this process, but knowing what to watch out for from the beginning gives you a significant advantage. Let’s walk through the mistakes you’ll want to avoid.

Failing to Document Everything

From the moment you discover a potential defect, your new job is to become a meticulous record-keeper. It’s not enough to simply know there’s a problem; you have to be able to prove it. Start by taking clear photos and videos of the issue from multiple angles. Keep a detailed log of every conversation you have with the seller, real estate agents, or repair professionals, noting the date, time, and what was discussed. Collect all repair estimates and invoices in a dedicated folder. This documentation is the foundation of your claim and provides the concrete evidence needed to show that the seller failed to disclose a known, material fact about the property.

Missing Critical Deadlines

In legal matters, time is always a factor. Florida has a statute of limitations for filing claims related to property defects, and if you wait too long, you could lose your right to seek compensation entirely. Acting quickly is crucial. As soon as you suspect non-disclosure, you should seek legal advice to understand your timeline. Missing a critical deadline can jeopardize your entire case, regardless of how strong your evidence is. With a surprising number of sellers admitting to not disclosing known issues, it’s vital to contact an attorney promptly to ensure you preserve all your legal options and file your claim within the required timeframe.

Assuming Every Defect Is a Legal Case

It’s easy to feel wronged when you find any unexpected problem in your new home, but not every issue qualifies as a valid non-disclosure claim. The law typically focuses on “material defects”—significant problems that would have influenced your decision to buy the property or the price you offered. A seller must have also known about the defect and intentionally concealed it. A minor repair or a problem the seller was genuinely unaware of may not be enough to build a case. This is where professional legal analysis becomes so important for handling contract disputes and determining if the issue meets the legal standard for non-disclosure.

How to Build a Stronger Non-Disclosure Case

Discovering a hidden defect in your new home can feel overwhelming, but taking a structured approach from the very beginning can make all the difference in your legal claim. Building a strong non-disclosure case hinges on clear, organized evidence that demonstrates the seller knew about the problem and failed to disclose it. Before you even pick up the phone to call an attorney, you can start laying the groundwork. By methodically documenting the issue, preserving all related proof, and carefully reviewing your legal documents, you create a solid foundation for your case and put yourself in the best possible position for a successful outcome.

Document Every Issue Immediately

The moment you suspect a problem that the seller should have disclosed, it’s time to act. Don’t wait. If you find a leak, a crack in the foundation, or evidence of a pest infestation, document it right away. Take clear photos and videos from multiple angles, making sure to capture the extent of the damage. Write down a detailed account of your discovery, including the date, time, and specific circumstances. This immediate record is crucial because it captures the issue before any repairs or changes are made. Your detailed, time-stamped notes serve as a powerful tool, creating a clear timeline that can be essential for proving your real estate litigation claim later on.

Preserve All Evidence and Proof

Your case is only as strong as the evidence you have to support it. Start a dedicated folder—either physical or digital—and save everything related to the defect. This includes the photos and videos you took, any reports from inspectors you hire to assess the damage, and all receipts for repairs or mitigation efforts. Get written estimates from multiple contractors for the cost of fixing the problem. This collection of proof does more than just show the defect exists; it helps quantify your financial damages. Keeping meticulous records ensures that when you discuss your case with an attorney, you have a comprehensive file of evidence ready to go, which can significantly streamline the legal process.

Review Your Contracts and Disclosure Forms

Your closing paperwork contains critical information. Pull out your sales contract and, most importantly, the seller’s property disclosure statement. In Florida, a seller has a legal responsibility to tell you what they know about their home’s condition. Carefully read through the disclosure form to see if the problem you found should have been mentioned. Compare the seller’s statements with the reality of the defect. Did they check a box claiming there were no roof leaks when you’ve found clear evidence of water damage? This document is a cornerstone of any non-disclosure case, as it can provide direct proof that the seller failed to meet their legal obligations.

Know Your Rights: Florida’s Disclosure Laws and Buyer Protections

Finding your dream home is an exciting milestone, but that excitement can quickly turn into a nightmare if you uncover serious problems the seller never mentioned. Suddenly, the house that was supposed to be your sanctuary becomes a source of stress and unexpected expenses. The good news is that you aren’t left to deal with the fallout alone. Florida has specific laws designed to protect homebuyers from dishonest sellers, ensuring that you have a legal path forward when things go wrong. These protections are a fundamental part of Florida real estate law and are built on the principle of fairness and transparency in property transactions.

Understanding your rights is the first step toward holding a seller accountable for non-disclosure. The law clearly outlines what a seller is required to tell you and what you can do if they fail to meet that obligation. It’s about making sure you have the full picture before making one of the biggest investments of your life. If a seller has intentionally hidden a defect, you have powerful legal tools at your disposal to seek justice and compensation for the harm you’ve suffered. This isn’t about punishing an honest mistake; it’s about addressing deliberate deception that can cost you thousands of dollars and immense stress. Knowing these rules empowers you to act confidently and protect your investment.

A Seller’s Mandatory Disclosure Obligations

In Florida, sellers can’t just stay quiet about significant problems with their property. The law requires them to disclose any known facts or defects that materially affect the value of the home and aren’t easy for a buyer to spot during a typical inspection. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a legal duty. These “material defects” include serious issues like a leaky roof, a cracked foundation, plumbing problems, termite damage, or unpermitted construction. The seller is typically required to provide this information in a written disclosure statement, giving you a clear record of what they knew about the property’s condition before you signed on the dotted line. This transparency is designed to prevent you from walking into a costly surprise.

Your Remedies Under State Law

If you discover a major defect after closing that the seller should have disclosed, you have options. Florida law allows you to take legal action to recover the financial losses you’ve incurred. You may be able to sue the seller for damages to cover the cost of repairs, your inspection fees, and other related expenses. In some cases of serious fraud or misrepresentation, you might even have grounds to ask the court to rescind the sale entirely, effectively canceling the contract and getting your money back. The key is proving that the seller knew about the defect and intentionally concealed it. Because this can be complex, it’s wise to seek professional legal advice to understand the best course of action for your specific situation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if the seller claims they didn’t know about the problem? This is a very common defense in non-disclosure cases. For a successful claim, you generally need to show that the seller did have knowledge of the defect. An attorney can help uncover evidence to prove this, such as records of past repairs, statements from neighbors, or even physical evidence of a cover-up, like a fresh patch of paint over a long-standing water stain. A seller can’t simply claim ignorance to avoid responsibility for a problem they clearly knew about.

I bought my house “as-is.” Does that mean I can’t sue the seller for non-disclosure? Not necessarily. An “as-is” clause in a Florida real estate contract typically means the buyer accepts the property in its current, observable condition. However, it does not protect a seller who actively conceals a known, significant defect. If the seller lied on the disclosure form or took steps to hide a serious issue like foundation damage, the “as-is” clause may not shield them from liability for fraud or misrepresentation.

What’s the difference between a non-disclosure claim and a bad home inspection? A non-disclosure claim is against the seller for failing to reveal a known defect. A bad home inspection claim would be against the inspector for negligence in failing to identify an observable problem. While these can sometimes overlap, the key difference is responsibility. The seller is liable for what they knew and hid, while the inspector is liable for what they should have reasonably seen during their assessment.

Should I start repairs immediately after finding a defect? While it’s tempting to fix a serious problem right away, you should first take steps to preserve the evidence. Before any work begins, thoroughly document the issue with clear photos and videos from various angles. Get written assessments and repair estimates from multiple qualified professionals. This documentation is critical for proving your case and demonstrating the extent of your financial damages.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit for non-disclosure in Florida? Florida law sets specific deadlines, known as the statute of limitations, for taking legal action. For a claim based on fraud, you generally have four years from the date you discovered the hidden defect. For a claim based on a breach of your written sales contract, the deadline is five years. Because these time limits are strict, it is essential to consult with an attorney as soon as you suspect a problem to protect your right to seek compensation.