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James and Linda enter into a fully executed purchase agreement for a commercial property in Bridgeport that was previously used as a dry-cleaning facility. The listing agent, Susan, knows that dry-cleaning operations historically involved the use of perchloroethylene, a regulated hazardous substance. Susan has not mentioned the Connecticut Transfer Act to either party. Which of the following best describes Susan's obligation in this situation?

Correct Answer

A) Susan should advise both parties that the Connecticut Transfer Act may be triggered and that environmental due diligence and proper Transfer Act compliance forms may be required before or at closing

Under the Connecticut Transfer Act (CGS §§ 22a-134 through 22a-134e), the transfer of an 'establishment' — defined as any property used to store, handle, or dispose of hazardous waste or substances — triggers specific environmental investigation and compliance requirements. A former dry-cleaning facility using perchloroethylene qualifies as an establishment. Susan, as the listing agent, has a professional obligation to recognize when the Transfer Act may apply and to advise both parties accordingly, including the need for appropriate Transfer Act forms (Form I, II, or III) and possible environmental remediation. Failing to do so could constitute a violation of her fiduciary and disclosure duties and expose her to liability under CUTPA (CGS § 42-110a et seq.).

Answer Options
A
Susan should advise both parties that the Connecticut Transfer Act may be triggered and that environmental due diligence and proper Transfer Act compliance forms may be required before or at closing
B
Susan must personally complete and file the Transfer Act environmental forms on behalf of the seller before the listing can be marketed
C
Susan has no obligation because the Transfer Act only applies to the buyer, who must independently investigate environmental conditions
D
Susan should refer the matter only to the buyer's attorney and take no further action, as environmental compliance is outside a licensee's scope of practice

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Related Topics & Key Terms

Key Terms:

connecticut_transfer_acthazardous_substancescommercial_propertylicensee_disclosure_dutycutpaenvironmental_compliance

Related Concepts

A time is of the essence clause in a contract means that all deadlines and dates specified in the agreement are strictly enforceable, and failure to meet them constitutes a material breach.

An appraisal contingency allows the buyer to cancel or renegotiate the contract if the property's appraised value comes in lower than the agreed-upon purchase price. This contingency protects buyers from overpaying.

An assignment of contract transfers one party's rights and obligations under a contract to a third party called the assignee. The original party, known as the assignor, transfers their contractual position to someone who was not originally part of the agreement.

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