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A seller in BC provides a Property Disclosure Statement that fails to disclose a known latent defect. After completion, the buyer discovers the defect. What is the buyer's most likely legal recourse?

Correct Answer

B) The buyer may sue for misrepresentation or fraudulent concealment, seeking damages for repair costs

If a seller knowingly conceals a latent defect on the Property Disclosure Statement, the buyer can pursue a civil action for misrepresentation or fraudulent concealment. BC courts have awarded damages for repair costs, diminution in value, and related losses in such cases.

Answer Options
A
The buyer has no recourse because the sale is final once completed
B
The buyer may sue for misrepresentation or fraudulent concealment, seeking damages for repair costs
C
The buyer may only file a complaint with the BC Financial Services Authority
D
The buyer's only option is to return the property to the seller

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Option B is correct because if a seller knowingly fails to disclose a latent defect on the PDS, the buyer can pursue a civil action for misrepresentation or fraudulent concealment. BC courts have consistently awarded damages in such cases, including costs of remediation, diminution in property value, and related consequential losses. The seller's duty to disclose known material defects survives the completion of the sale.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

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Key Terms

latent defectmisrepresentationfraudulent concealmentProperty Disclosure Statementdamages
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