12/10/2026
“The defect was fixed, so I don’t need to disclose it.”
Not necessarily.
If there has been a material defect or problem with a property, the safer approach is to disclose it - even where repairs have already been carried out.
For example, if there was previously damp, a leaking roof, structural cracking or a plumbing problem, do not simply assume that the issue no longer needs to be mentioned because it was repaired.
Disclose the problem and explain what was done to repair it.
If available, keep the invoices, reports, guarantees or other proof of the remedial work.
A proper disclosure does not necessarily mean there is something wrong with the property today. It gives the purchaser the relevant history and, importantly, creates a record of what the seller disclosed before the sale.
A voetstoots clause should never be treated as a substitute for proper disclosure.
For sellers and property practitioners, when in doubt, disclose rather than leave room for an allegation later that something material was withheld.
Carol Coetzee & Associates can assist with property disclosures and appropriate wording in sale agreements.
Contact details:
Phone: 011 465 0518
Email: [email protected]