Thinking about selling your Florissant home and not sure what you must share with buyers? You are not alone. Clear, early disclosures protect you from surprises later and help buyers feel confident about your home. In this guide, you will learn what to disclose in Missouri, local issues to watch in Florissant, and simple steps to keep your sale on track. Let’s dive in.
Why seller disclosures matter
Seller disclosures tell buyers about known conditions that could affect value or safety. They also protect you by reducing later claims of misrepresentation. Disclosing known material defects is expected, even if you are selling the home as-is. A general as-is statement does not protect you if you knowingly leave out a latent defect that a reasonable walk-through would not show.
What you must disclose in Missouri
Federal lead-based paint rules
If your home was built before 1978, lead-based paint disclosure is required. Provide the federal EPA/HUD lead safety pamphlet, disclose any known lead-based paint or lead hazards, and allow buyers the option for a lead inspection or risk assessment.
Structure and major systems
Share what you know about the foundation, roof, walls, windows, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. Include known defects, past repairs, or ongoing issues. If you made repairs, list what was done and when.
Water and moisture history
Disclose past or present leaks, basement water, roof issues, and any known mold concerns. Buyers pay close attention to moisture, especially in basements common to the St. Louis area.
Environmental hazards and radon
If you know of environmental hazards, disclose them. In the St. Louis region, radon is a common topic. If you have radon test results or a mitigation system, share those details. If you are aware of a radon issue, consider testing or mitigation before listing or be prepared to disclose and discuss.
Sewer, septic, and utilities
Note if your home is on public sewer or a private septic system. In most Florissant neighborhoods, municipal sewer service is standard. If you have had sewer backups, lateral line repairs, or septic service, disclose that history.
Boundaries, easements, and zoning
Share any known boundary disputes, easements, or encroachments. If you know of unpermitted additions or any zoning or code issues, disclose them and gather related records.
Pests and wood-destroying insects
If you have treated for termites or other pests, disclose the history and any warranties that may transfer.
Appliances and fixtures
Clarify which appliances and fixtures stay with the home. Spell out exclusions so there is no confusion later.
HOA details and legal matters
If your home is in an HOA, disclose the HOA name, dues, and any pending assessments. Also disclose known liens, legal claims, special assessments, or foreclosure activity tied to the property.
Insurance and damage history
Share major insurance claims such as fire, flood, or storm damage and note any related repairs or warranties.
Sensitive facts
Some facts, like certain past events at the property, have specific rules. If you have questions, consult the Missouri Real Estate Commission, Missouri REALTORS, or a local attorney for guidance.
Florissant-specific factors
Older housing stock
Many Florissant homes were built in the mid-20th century. That increases the chance of lead-based paint, older electrical and plumbing, and past improvements that may not have permits. Buyers often ask for clarity in these areas.
Regional radon potential
The St. Louis area is known for higher radon potential. Disclose known test results and mitigation systems. If you know of elevated results, consider a pre-listing test or mitigation and be ready to share documentation.
Flooding and drainage
Check your property’s flood zone and disclose any known flooding, drainage problems, or repetitive loss history. Even homes outside special flood hazard areas can have seasonal water issues. Be direct about any basement or yard drainage concerns.
Sewer laterals and backups
Most neighborhoods are on municipal sewer. If you have experienced backups, root intrusion, or repairs to the lateral line, disclose that history and any warranties.
HOAs and subdivision rules
Many Florissant subdivisions have HOAs. Provide the HOA name, dues, contact information, and any current or pending assessments. Share the status of required documents if available.
Permits and city records
Check your permit history with the City of Florissant or St. Louis County. If work was completed without a permit, disclose what you know and be prepared for buyer questions or compliance requests.
When to complete your disclosure
- Complete your disclosure early. Fill it out when you list the home or before accepting an offer. Early disclosure builds buyer trust and reduces contract surprises.
- Use the standard property condition disclosure form commonly used across Missouri. Provide it to prospective buyers and attach it to the contract as required.
- For pre-1978 homes, include the lead-based paint disclosure and the federal pamphlet.
- Keep signed copies and buyer acknowledgments. If a new issue arises, supplement your disclosure promptly in writing.
Documents to gather
- Completed seller property disclosure form.
- Lead-based paint disclosure and EPA/HUD pamphlet for pre-1978 homes.
- Permits and certificates for additions or remodels.
- Repair invoices, contractor details, warranties, and insurance claim records.
- Recent inspection or radon reports and any septic reports if applicable.
- HOA bylaws, covenants, fee schedules, meeting minutes, and information on any special assessments.
- Surveys, plats, and any easement documentation.
- Flood insurance claims and elevation certificates if available.
Where to verify and get help
- Missouri Real Estate Commission for rules that affect disclosure practices.
- Missouri REALTORS for the standard disclosure form and guidance.
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for lead-based paint resources and required pamphlet.
- Missouri Department of Health for radon program information.
- City of Florissant Building Division and St. Louis County offices for permits and property records.
- FEMA Flood Map Service Center for flood zone maps.
- Local licensed home inspectors, radon testers, and real estate attorneys for professional support.
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Assuming as-is covers everything. Selling as-is does not remove your duty to disclose known latent defects.
- Skipping unpermitted work. Be upfront about additions or remodels without permits. Buyers will likely ask for documentation.
- Ignoring moisture or radon history. Disclose known testing or mitigation and share reports. Consider pre-listing inspections to reduce back-and-forth later.
- Missing HOA and assessment details. Provide accurate fees and any pending assessments early.
If a buyer finds a nondisclosed issue
Buyers who discover a nondisclosed material defect may seek remedies such as contract rescission, repair costs, or a price adjustment. Whether a claim is fraud, negligent misrepresentation, or a breach of a duty depends on what you knew and when. Time limits for claims vary, so if an issue arises, consider speaking with a Missouri real estate attorney.
Exemptions and special cases
Certain transfers are often exempt from standard disclosure rules, like some court-ordered sales, foreclosures, certain family transfers, or some estate and bankruptcy situations. New construction may follow different disclosure or warranty processes. Confirm any exemptions that may apply to your sale with the appropriate state or local sources.
Bottom line for Florissant sellers
The most reliable path to a smooth closing is simple: be truthful, be complete, and share early. Provide the standard Missouri disclosure form, follow federal lead-based paint rules for older homes, and gather permits, repair records, HOA documents, and inspection reports. Address safety issues or disclose them clearly so buyers can make informed decisions.
If you want local guidance from a responsive team that knows Florissant and the wider St. Louis market, reach out to The Winckowski Group. We can help you prepare your disclosures, coordinate inspections, and present your home with confidence.
FAQs
Do I need a lead-based paint disclosure for pre-1978 homes?
- Yes. Federal law requires the lead pamphlet, disclosure of known lead hazards, and an option for buyers to conduct a lead inspection or risk assessment.
Does selling as-is remove my obligation to disclose known issues?
- No. As-is does not eliminate your duty to disclose known latent defects that materially affect the property.
Should I test for radon before listing in Florissant?
- You should disclose any known tests or mitigation; the St. Louis region has higher radon potential, so many sellers consider a pre-listing test.
What if I completed a remodel years ago without permits?
- Disclose what you know about unpermitted work and be prepared for buyer or municipal requests for documentation or compliance.
Where can I get Missouri’s seller disclosure form and guidance?
- Check with the Missouri Real Estate Commission and Missouri REALTORS, and review local records with the City of Florissant or St. Louis County.
When should I complete the disclosure during my sale?
- Complete it when you list or before accepting an offer; early, clear disclosure helps prevent delays and renegotiations.
