If Your Property Has
Known Issues
Honesty is the best policy when selling a home. Understanding what you must disclose — and how to handle it — protects you and keeps your sale on track.
Get Free AdviceYour Legal Obligation
As part of the conveyancing process, you are legally required to answer questions about your property and disclose any known issues. If you knowingly withhold information that would affect a buyer's decision to purchase, they may be able to make a claim against you further down the line if a problem arises.
Being transparent upfront is not just a legal obligation — it's the right thing to do, and it keeps your sale progressing smoothly. Surprises discovered during surveys or conveyancing are one of the leading causes of sales falling through.
Issues That Must Be Disclosed
The following are the most common categories of known issues that sellers are required to declare during the conveyancing process.
Flooding
Whether the property has ever been flooded and the cause of any flooding.
Disputes
Any disputes relating to the property, including boundaries and borders.
Nearby Development
Any proposals you're aware of for developing property nearby.
Building Works
Any building works undertaken at the property and whether appropriate certificates were obtained.
Insurance Issues
Any unusual or non-standard terms on your insurance, including recent claims.
Japanese Knotweed
Any presence of Japanese knotweed, an invasive plant that can affect structure and value.
Rights of Access
Any rights of access for others to cross your land (e.g. shared footpaths or driveways).
Shared Services
Whether any pipes or services cross another property — or vice versa.
Shared Maintenance Costs
Any shared maintenance obligations, such as a shared driveway or communal areas.
Subsidence
Any history of subsidence or structural movement affecting the property.
How to Handle Known Issues
Having a known issue doesn't necessarily mean your property won't sell — or that you'll get less for it. Many issues are manageable with the right documentation, professional reports, and honest communication with prospective buyers.
Our advice is always to get ahead of it. Talk to us before you list. We can help you understand what to disclose, how to present it, and how to price accordingly. Transparency builds trust with buyers and keeps sales from falling through.
Still Unsure What to Disclose?
Every property is different. If you're not sure whether something counts as a "known issue" you need to declare, the best approach is to speak to your solicitor and to us. We've handled many varied sales and can give you practical, honest guidance before you list.
01
Talk to us
Book a free valuation and raise any concerns upfront. We've seen it all.
02
Get documentation
For building works, planning, or specialist issues — gather certificates and reports early.
03
Disclose clearly
Your solicitor will guide you through the Property Information Form — be thorough and honest.
Selling a Property With Known Issues?
Don't let uncertainty hold you back. Book a free, confidential conversation with DEAL. — we'll give you honest advice on how to proceed.