🤔 Seller Question: What If You’re Not Sure on a Disclosure?
When selling your home, completing disclosure forms is a must. These forms ask about the condition of the property and any known issues. But what if you’re not sure on a disclosure? Some questions only offer “yes” or “no” options, leaving no room for uncertainty.
🙋♂️ A question we hear all the time is: “What if you’re not sure on a disclosure—what should you put?”
It’s a great question, and one that trips up a lot of sellers.
👉 According to Gov Hutchison, legal counsel for the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.), if you truly don’t know, the correct answer is “no.”
💡 Why? Because most questions are worded with, “to the best of your knowledge.” So, if you have no knowledge of an issue, answering “no” is honest and acceptable. You’re not claiming the issue doesn’t exist—you’re just stating you’re not aware of it.
So again, what if you’re not sure on a disclosure about something like past water damage? If you’ve never seen it and no one’s mentioned it, then checking “no” is appropriate. You’re not expected to investigate or make guesses—just answer truthfully based on what you know.
We get it: an “I don’t know” box would be helpful. But in legal terms, “no” serves that role when you have zero knowledge.
➡️ In summary: If you’re unsure and genuinely don’t know, “no” is the correct answer. Just make sure your responses reflect your true knowledge of the property.
Still wondering what if you’re not sure on a disclosure? Ask your agent. They’re there to help every step of the way.
DRE# 00808646 Keller Williams Palos Verdes Realty www.StephenHaw.com