A property disclosure statement is a written document provided by a seller of real property to the prospective buyer stating that the property has a material or significant problem or defect and disclosing the nature of the problem or defect—or stating the seller is unaware of any such problems or defects.
In Alabama, a property disclosure statement is a document that a seller of real property typically provides to a prospective buyer, disclosing any known material or significant defects with the property. Alabama law, specifically the Alabama Residential Property Condition Disclosure Act (Ala. Code § 35-4-271 et seq.), requires sellers to complete a disclosure statement that covers various aspects of the property's condition, including the status of the roof, foundation, electrical systems, plumbing, and the presence of pests, among other things. The seller must disclose any known problems or defects that could materially affect the value of the property. If the seller is unaware of any such problems or defects, they must state this in the disclosure. Failure to provide this disclosure or providing false or misleading information can lead to legal consequences for the seller, including potential rescission of the sale or damages.