When selling a home, completing disclosure forms is an essential part of the process. These forms ask about the property’s condition and any issues you are aware of. But what happens when a question requires a clear “yes” or “no,” and you truly are not certain.
This is a common concern among sellers.
👉 According to Gov Hutchison, legal counsel for the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.), if you genuinely do not know, the correct answer is “no.”
Why This Is the Correct Response
Most disclosure questions are written with the phrase “to the best of your knowledge.” If you have no knowledge of an issue, answering “no” is both honest and acceptable. You are not stating that the issue definitely does not exist. You are simply confirming that you are not aware of it.
For example, what if you are not sure whether there was past water damage. If you have never seen evidence of it and have never been told about it, checking “no” is the appropriate response. You are not expected to investigate or assume. You are expected to answer truthfully based on what you know.
While an “I don’t know” option might feel helpful, in legal terms, “no” serves that purpose when you have zero knowledge of the matter.
In summary: If you are unsure and truly do not know, “no” is the correct answer. Your responsibility is to answer each question accurately according to your actual knowledge of the property.
If you still find yourself wondering what to do when you are not sure on a disclosure, your agent is there to guide you through each step with clarity and care.
📲 For questions or guidance:
Stephen Haw
📞 (310) 503-9886
DRE# 00808646
Keller Williams Palos Verdes Realty
