When it comes to selling your home, honesty isn’t just the best policy—it’s the law. Washington State requires home sellers to disclose certain facts about the property to potential buyers before closing. These disclosures are designed to protect both parties and prevent surprises after the sale. But many sellers are unsure what needs to be disclosed, what counts as a “defect,” and what happens if something gets left out. At Onsite Real Estate Group, we help East Pierce County sellers navigate these rules the right way. Here’s what you need to know.
In Washington, sellers are required to complete a Seller Disclosure Statement (also known as Form 17). This form outlines the condition of the property and whether the seller is aware of any existing issues. It covers structural components, systems, water sources, legal matters, and neighborhood-related concerns. The goal is transparency—to give buyers an accurate understanding of what they’re purchasing.
You’re required to disclose known issues with the home, including (but not limited to): water damage, foundation cracks, electrical problems, roof leaks, pest infestations, and past repairs. You also need to disclose things like boundary disputes, easements, shared driveways, or any unpermitted work. If you’re unsure about something, it’s safer to disclose than to risk withholding.
Sellers are only required to disclose issues they are aware of. If a defect exists but you genuinely didn’t know about it, you typically won’t be held liable. That said, failing to disclose known problems—even if you believe they’re “minor” or already fixed—can open the door to legal action later. Full transparency is your safest option.
Yes—even if you’re selling your home “as-is,” you are still legally required to provide a completed Seller Disclosure Statement unless exempt. As-is simply means you don’t intend to make repairs, but you still must disclose known conditions. Selling as-is is not a shield against liability if something was knowingly hidden or misrepresented.
There are a few narrow exemptions to the disclosure requirement, such as estate sales, foreclosure resales, or when the seller hasn’t lived in the home (like some rental properties). If you're unsure whether you're exempt, it’s best to consult your agent. Most traditional home sales will require full disclosure under Washington law.
It’s normal to have questions when filling out your Seller Disclosure Statement. At Onsite Real Estate Group, we walk sellers through each section to ensure nothing gets missed. We’ll also help you document past repairs or improvements to strengthen buyer trust. Transparency leads to smoother closings—and fewer headaches down the road. Let’s get it right together.
