Property Disclosure Statement Template, Free Download 2026

By Jessica Henwick, Editor-in-ChiefLegally reviewed by David Chen, Esq.
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When Do You Need a Property Disclosure Statement?

You are selling a residential property and your state requires a residential property disclosure template (also called a seller disclosure form) that identifies known material facts about the property's condition, defects, and environmental hazards before the buyer completes the purchase.

The property was built before 1978 and federal law under the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act requires you to provide a lead-based paint disclosure to the buyer, including any known lead hazards, inspection reports, and the EPA pamphlet on lead paint dangers.

Your real estate agent or buyer's attorney has requested a completed disclosure form as a condition of proceeding with the transaction, and you need to document the condition of all major systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roof, foundation) and disclose any known defects.

You are aware of latent defects (hidden problems not visible during a normal inspection) such as a history of water intrusion, foundation issues, mold, termite damage, or boundary disputes that must be disclosed to avoid fraud or misrepresentation claims after the sale.

The buyer has submitted questions about the property's history, including prior insurance claims, flooding events, deaths on the property, or neighbor disputes, and you need a detailed disclosure document that addresses these inquiries systematically.

You are conducting an as-is sale and need to understand that even in as-is transactions, most states still require disclosure of known material defects, and the caveat emptor doctrine has been largely replaced by statutory disclosure obligations.

⚠ Statutory Requirement: The Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act (42 U.S.C. § 4852d) imposes penalties up to $19,507 per violation for sellers who fail to provide the required lead paint disclosure for pre-1978 homes. This is a federal requirement that applies in every state regardless of local disclosure laws.

📋 State-Specific Note: The EPA recommends testing all homes for radon before sale. While not federally mandated, proactive radon disclosure can prevent post-sale liability claims and is required by statute in several states including Illinois (420 ILCS 46/10), Maine (32 M.R.S. § 6030-C), and New Jersey (N.J.A.C. 7:28-27).

What Should a Property Disclosure Statement Include?

Property Identification and Seller Information

Include the property address, legal description, and the seller's name and contact information. State the date the seller acquired the property and whether the seller has occupied the property as their primary residence, as some disclosure requirements differ for owner-occupied versus investment properties.

Structural and Foundation Disclosures

Disclose any known issues with the foundation, walls, roof, attic, basement, or structural components. Include information about settling, cracking, water penetration, termite or pest damage, and any repairs that have been made. Distinguish between latent defects (hidden) and patent defects (visible).

Systems and Mechanical Disclosures

Document the condition and age of all major systems: HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), plumbing (supply and waste), electrical (panel, wiring type), water heater, and any built-in appliances. Disclose any known malfunctions, past repairs, and remaining warranty coverage.

Environmental Hazard Disclosures

Disclose any known environmental hazards including lead-based paint (required for pre-1978 homes under the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act), asbestos, radon, mold, underground storage tanks, contaminated soil, and proximity to hazardous waste sites. The EPA Renovation Repair and Painting Rule governs lead paint disturbance in older homes.

Water and Drainage Disclosures

Disclose the water source (municipal, well, spring), sewage system (public sewer, septic tank), any history of flooding, drainage problems, water damage, or moisture intrusion. Include information about flood zone designation and whether flood insurance is required or has been previously maintained.

Legal and Title Disclosures

Disclose any known boundary disputes, easements, encroachments, deed restrictions, HOA obligations, pending litigation, zoning violations, building code violations, or unpermitted improvements. These material facts affect the buyer's use and enjoyment of the property and can create significant liability if not disclosed.

Seller Certification and Signatures

Include a certification statement where the seller attests that the disclosures are accurate and complete to the best of their knowledge. Include signature lines for the seller, the buyer (acknowledging receipt), and the date. The buyer typically has a review period to evaluate the disclosures before waiving contingencies. The completed disclosure becomes part of the transaction file alongside the deed template and closing documents.

Legal Details: Key Clauses in a Property Disclosure Statement

Property Information
1.1

This Property Disclosure Statement (the "Disclosure") is made by [____________] ("Seller") in connection with the sale of the real property located at [____________] (the "Property"), including all improvements, fixtures, and appurtenances thereto, as more particularly described in the purchase agreement dated [____________] (the "Purchase Agreement"). This Disclosure is provided in accordance with [applicable state statute citation] requiring seller disclosure of known material defects and conditions affecting the Property.

1.2

Seller has owned the Property since [____________] and has [occupied / not occupied] the Property during the period of ownership. Seller's responses in this Disclosure are based upon Seller's actual knowledge as of the date of this Disclosure and are not intended to be a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Seller has not conducted any inspections of the Property for the purpose of completing this Disclosure except as specifically noted herein. Buyer is encouraged to obtain independent professional inspections of all aspects of the Property.

Structural Condition
2.1

Foundation: Type: [____________]; Known defects, settling, cracks, or water intrusion: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]; Repairs made: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe and provide documentation: [____________]. Exterior Walls: Type: [____________]; Known defects, rot, or damage: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Roof: Type: [____________]; Age: [____________] years; Known leaks, damage, or defects: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]; Last replaced/repaired: [____________]; Warranty: [Yes/No]; Transferable: [Yes/No].

2.2

Interior Walls and Ceilings: Known defects, cracks, water stains, or damage: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Floors: Known defects, water damage, or unevenness: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Windows and Doors: Known defects or seal failures: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Attic: Accessible: [Yes/No]; Insulation type and depth: [____________]; Known defects: [Yes/No]. Basement/Crawl Space: Type: [____________]; Known water intrusion, moisture, or structural issues: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]; Waterproofing system installed: [Yes/No].

Systems and Mechanical
3.1

HVAC System: Type: [____________]; Age: [____________] years; Last serviced: [____________]; Known defects or issues: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Electrical System: Panel amperage: [____________]; Known defects, aluminum wiring, knob-and-tube wiring, or code violations: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Plumbing: Pipe material: [____________]; Known defects, leaks, or polybutylene piping: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Water Heater: Type: [____________]; Age: [____________] years; Capacity: [____________] gallons; Known defects: [Yes/No].

3.2

Appliances included in sale (list make, model, and condition): [____________]. Security system: [Yes/No]; Owned or leased: [____________]; Transferable: [Yes/No]. Fire/smoke detection: Type: [____________]; Number of detectors: [____________]; Hard-wired: [Yes/No]. Sprinkler system: [Yes/No]; Zones: [____________]; Known issues: [Yes/No]. Pool/spa: [Yes/No]; Type: [____________]; Equipment age: [____________]; Known defects: [Yes/No]; Fence/barrier compliant: [Yes/No]. Seller represents that all systems and appliances disclosed herein are in working order as of the date of this Disclosure, except as otherwise noted.

Environmental Conditions
4.1

Seller discloses the following environmental conditions affecting the Property: Asbestos-containing materials: Known or suspected presence: [Yes/No]; If yes, location and condition: [____________]. Lead-based paint: Property built before 1978: [Yes/No]; Known lead-based paint or hazards: [Yes/No]; Lead paint inspection report available: [Yes/No]. Radon: Radon testing conducted: [Yes/No]; Results: [____________] pCi/L; Mitigation system installed: [Yes/No]. Mold: Known or suspected presence: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe location and remediation: [____________].

4.2

Underground storage tanks: Known presence: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe contents and condition: [____________]. Soil contamination: Known or suspected: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Flood zone designation: Property located in FEMA-designated flood zone: [Yes/No]; Zone designation: [____________]; Flood insurance required: [Yes/No]; History of flooding: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Hazardous materials: Known use, storage, or disposal of hazardous materials on the Property: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Seller shall provide the federally required lead-based paint disclosure pamphlet if the Property was built before 1978, pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 4852d.

Water and Sewer
5.1

Water source: [Public / Private well / Other: ____________]. If well: Depth: [____________]; Last tested: [____________]; Results satisfactory: [Yes/No]; Known issues with water quality or quantity: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Water treatment system: [Yes/No]; Type: [____________]. Sewer: [Public / Private septic / Other: ____________]. If septic: Type: [____________]; Tank size: [____________] gallons; Last pumped: [____________]; Last inspected: [____________]; Known defects or failures: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]; Drain field location: [____________].

5.2

Sump pump: [Yes/No]; Functional: [Yes/No]; Battery backup: [Yes/No]. Known issues with water pressure, drainage, or sewer backups: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Water softener: [Yes/No]; Owned or leased: [____________]. Irrigation system: [Yes/No]; Known defects: [Yes/No]. Seller represents that the water and sewer systems serving the Property are in functional condition as of the date of this Disclosure, except as otherwise noted. Buyer is advised to obtain independent testing and inspection of all water and sewer systems prior to closing.

Legal and Zoning
6.1

Zoning classification: [____________]. Known zoning violations or non-conforming uses: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Homeowners association (HOA): [Yes/No]; Name: [____________]; Monthly/annual dues: [$__________]; Special assessments: [Yes/No]; Amount: [$__________]. CC&Rs, deed restrictions, or covenants: [Yes/No]; Copy attached: [Yes/No]. Easements or encroachments: Known: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Boundary disputes: Known: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________].

6.2

Pending or threatened litigation affecting the Property: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Outstanding liens, assessments, or code violations: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Permits obtained for all improvements and additions: [Yes/No]; If no, describe unpermitted work: [____________]. Historic district or landmark designation: [Yes/No]. Planned or proposed changes to adjacent property or zoning: Known: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Seller represents that Seller has disclosed all known legal and zoning matters affecting the Property and that the Property is not subject to any order requiring repairs, alterations, or corrections that has not been complied with.

Known Defects and Other Disclosures
7.1

Seller discloses the following additional known material defects, conditions, or facts that may affect the value or desirability of the Property: [____________]. Seller also discloses the following: Deaths on the Property within the past [number] years (to the extent required by applicable state law): [Yes/No]. Known pest infestations (termites, rodents, bedbugs, etc.): [Yes/No]; If yes, describe and provide treatment records: [____________]. Noise or odor issues from neighboring properties or sources: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________]. Insurance claims filed on the Property within the past [number] years: [Yes/No]; If yes, describe: [____________].

7.2

Seller has made the following repairs or improvements to the Property during Seller's ownership: [____________]. All such repairs and improvements were performed by [licensed contractors / Seller]. Permits were obtained for the following work: [____________]. Seller is aware of the following manufacturer recalls or safety notices affecting systems, appliances, or materials installed in the Property: [____________]. Seller has disclosed all facts known to Seller that materially affect the value or desirability of the Property, whether or not specifically asked about in this Disclosure.

Seller Certification
8.1

Seller certifies that the information set forth in this Disclosure is true, correct, and complete to the best of Seller's actual knowledge as of the date signed below. Seller agrees to promptly notify Buyer in writing of any material changes to the information provided herein that occur prior to closing. This Disclosure is not a substitute for any inspections or warranties that Buyer may wish to obtain. Seller makes no representations or warranties beyond those expressly stated in this Disclosure and the Purchase Agreement.

8.2

Seller acknowledges that failure to disclose known material defects may subject Seller to liability for damages suffered by Buyer, including but not limited to the cost of repairs, diminution in value, and consequential damages, as well as potential claims for fraud or misrepresentation under applicable state law. Seller's duty to disclose is limited to facts actually known to Seller and does not require Seller to conduct inspections or investigations to discover defects. Seller has had the opportunity to consult with legal counsel prior to completing this Disclosure.

Buyer Acknowledgment
9.1

Buyer acknowledges receipt of this Disclosure and understands that it is based upon Seller's actual knowledge and is not a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Buyer acknowledges that Buyer has been advised to obtain independent professional inspections of all aspects of the Property, including structural, mechanical, environmental, pest, and other inspections, at Buyer's sole cost and expense. Buyer's acceptance of the Property shall be based upon Buyer's own investigation and not upon any representation made in this Disclosure or otherwise, except as expressly set forth in the Purchase Agreement.

9.2

Buyer may rescind the Purchase Agreement within [number] days of receipt of this Disclosure if Buyer finds the disclosures unacceptable, as provided in the Purchase Agreement and applicable state law. Buyer's failure to rescind within such period shall constitute acceptance of this Disclosure. This Disclosure shall survive closing and delivery of the deed only to the extent required by applicable state law. Both parties acknowledge that this Disclosure is governed by the laws of the State of [____________], including [applicable state statute citation governing property disclosures].

Signature Requirements

E-Signature

Property disclosure statements are valid with electronic signatures under the ESIGN Act and UETA. The seller must sign certifying the accuracy of all disclosures to the best of their knowledge. The buyer signs to acknowledge receipt of the disclosure. No notarization or witnesses are required for property disclosure statements.

Related Real Estate Templates

A property disclosure statement is often used alongside other real estate documents. Depending on your situation, you may also need:

How to Fill Out a Property Disclosure Statement

1

Complete the Property Information

Enter the property address, your name as seller, the date you acquired the property, and whether you have occupied the property. If you have never occupied the property (investment or inherited property), note this fact as it limits your firsthand knowledge of the property's condition history.

2

Disclose Structural Conditions

Answer each question about the property's structural components honestly. If you are aware of foundation cracks, roof leaks, water intrusion, settling, or past termite treatment, disclose it with dates and details of any repairs. Attach inspection reports or contractor invoices if available.

3

Document System Conditions

Record the age and condition of the HVAC system, water heater, electrical panel, and plumbing. Disclose any known issues, recent repairs, or components nearing the end of their expected lifespan. If you have had recent inspections, reference the reports and make them available to the buyer.

4

Complete Environmental Disclosures

If the property was built before 1978, complete the lead-based paint disclosure as required by federal law. Disclose any known asbestos, radon test results, mold remediation, or other environmental conditions. Provide the EPA pamphlet "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home" to the buyer.

5

Disclose Legal and Title Issues

Answer questions about boundary disputes, easements, HOA rules, pending litigation, zoning issues, and unpermitted improvements. Disclose any material facts that could affect the buyer's decision to purchase. When in doubt, disclose; non-disclosure creates far greater legal risk than over-disclosure.

6

Sign and Deliver to Buyer

Review all answers for completeness and accuracy, then sign and date the disclosure statement. Deliver the completed seller disclosure form to the buyer or buyer's agent. The buyer should sign an acknowledgment of receipt. Retain your signed copy in case any post-sale claims arise.

Free Template vs Custom Property Disclosure Statement

FeatureFree TemplateCustom (AI or Attorney)
Free property disclosure form with basic structure
Lead-based paint disclosure section
Residential property disclosure template format
State-specific disclosure requirementsAll 50 states supported-
Environmental hazard compliance sections-
Attorney review and customization-
Printable property disclosure statement form download (PDF/Word)

Key Facts About Property Disclosure Statement Documents

Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act requires disclosure for homes built before 1978.

Almost every state requires sellers to disclose known material defects.

Caveat emptor still applies in limited circumstances for as-is sales in some states.

Seller who fails to disclose known latent defects may be liable for fraud or misrepresentation.

EPA Renovation Repair and Painting Rule governs lead paint disturbance in pre-1978 homes.

Key Legal Terms in a Property Disclosure Statement

property disclosure statementseller disclosurelatent defectpatent defectmaterial factcaveat emptorlead-based paint disclosureEPA Renovation Repair and Painting RuleResidential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Actas-is salefraudmisrepresentation

When a Free Template Is Not Enough

Free templates cover standard situations, but a professionally drafted property disclosure statement accounts for state-specific requirements, unusual circumstances, and enforceability considerations that generic forms miss. If your situation involves significant assets, complex terms, or potential disputes, request an attorney-drafted property disclosure statement with a custom quote based on your situation.

Property Disclosure Statement Template FAQ

What is a property disclosure statement?
A property disclosure statement (also called a residential property disclosure or seller disclosure form) is a legal document that a seller of real property completes to inform potential buyers about the known condition of the property, including any defects, hazards, or material facts that could affect the buyer's purchase decision. The disclosure covers structural components, mechanical systems, environmental hazards, water and drainage conditions, and legal issues such as easements or zoning violations. Almost every state requires sellers to provide this disclosure, and failure to do so can result in liability for fraud or misrepresentation.
Is a seller required to disclose defects?
Yes, almost every state requires sellers to disclose known defects to potential buyers. The seller must disclose material facts about the property's condition that are known to the seller and not readily observable by the buyer. This includes both latent defects (hidden problems) and patent defects (visible problems). Federal law also requires disclosure of known lead-based paint hazards in homes built before 1978 under the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act. Sellers are not required to conduct inspections to discover unknown defects.
What happens if a seller fails to disclose?
A seller who fails to disclose known defects can face significant legal consequences including rescission of the sale (the buyer can undo the transaction), compensatory damages for repair costs and diminished property value, and potential claims of fraud or misrepresentation. In many states, the buyer can recover not only the cost of repairs but also attorney fees and punitive damages if the court finds the non-disclosure was intentional. Real estate agents who are aware of undisclosed defects may also face liability and disciplinary action.
What is the difference between latent and patent defects?
A latent defect is a hidden problem that is not visible during a normal property inspection, such as a cracked foundation hidden behind drywall, concealed water damage, underground contamination, or faulty wiring behind finished walls. A patent defect is a visible or readily observable problem, such as a stained ceiling, cracked window, or peeling paint. Sellers are required to disclose known latent defects because buyers cannot discover them through reasonable inspection. Patent defects are typically considered discoverable by the buyer during their inspection.
Who is liable if defects are found after a home inspection?
Generally, sellers are not liable for defects they genuinely did not know about. The property disclosure statement requires sellers to disclose defects "to the best of their knowledge." However, courts examine whether the seller should have known about the defect based on the length of ownership, occupancy of the property, and any red flags that a reasonable person would have investigated. Willful ignorance (deliberately avoiding knowledge of a problem) does not protect the seller from liability. Buyers should always conduct their own independent inspection.
What states require seller disclosure?
Almost every state requires some form of seller disclosure, though the specific requirements vary. Most states have standardized disclosure forms that sellers must complete. A few states, like Alabama, still follow modified caveat emptor principles with limited disclosure obligations. Regardless of state requirements, federal law requires lead-based paint disclosure for all homes built before 1978. Even in states with limited disclosure requirements, sellers who know about material defects and fail to disclose them can still be sued for fraud or misrepresentation under common law.
What does a property disclosure form include?
A complete property disclosure form includes sections covering: the property's structural condition (foundation, roof, walls), mechanical systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, water heater), environmental hazards (lead-based paint, asbestos, radon, mold), water and drainage (flooding history, water source, septic or sewer), legal issues (easements, encroachments, HOA, zoning), improvements and renovations (permits, dates, contractors), insurance claims history, and any other material facts known to the seller. Download our printable property disclosure statement form, which uses a yes/no/unknown format for each question consistent with most state requirements.
Can a buyer sue for non-disclosure?
Yes, a buyer can sue the seller for failing to disclose known defects. The buyer may bring claims for fraud, negligent misrepresentation, breach of contract, or violation of the state's disclosure statute. To succeed, the buyer typically must prove that the seller knew about the defect, failed to disclose it, the defect was material (would have affected the purchase decision), and the buyer suffered damages as a result. Remedies may include rescission of the sale, compensatory damages for repair costs, and in cases of intentional fraud, punitive damages and attorney fees.

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