Understanding Maryland’s Seller Disclosure Requirements for Home Buyers

by Ashley Ducre

When buying a home in Maryland, the seller’s disclosure form is your roadmap to understanding a property’s condition. Maryland law (Md. Code § 10-702) requires sellers to disclose known defects that could impact a home’s value, such as structural issues, roof leaks, or basement moisture. Even “as-is” sales require disclosure of latent defects.

What Buyers Should Know:

What’s Covered: Sellers must detail conditions like foundation issues, roof age, and lead-based paint risks (especially in older homes built before 1978).
Your Rights: Review the Residential Property Disclosure and Disclaimer Statement carefully. If a seller opts for an “as-is” disclaimer, you can still request inspections to uncover hidden issues.
Protect Yourself: Hire a licensed home inspector to verify disclosures. In areas like Ellicott City, where historic homes are common, check for outdated wiring or plumbing.
Why It Matters: Accurate disclosures prevent post-sale surprises, like costly repairs. If a seller misrepresents the property, you may have legal recourse for fraud or breach of contract. Consult a Maryland real estate attorney to review contracts, especially in complex transactions.
Pro Tip: Request a disclosure form early and cross-check it during your home inspection to avoid surprises.