This week’s hotline question is a rather grim affair. What if you have a property where someone committed suicide, was murdered, or another sort of felony occurred? Do you have to disclose? Unless the felony that occurred was the manufacture of methamphetamine, the answer is no.  

This is governed by the Virginia Residential Property Disclosure Act. § 55.1-713. It states notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter or any other statute or regulation, no cause of action shall arise against an owner or a real estate licensee for failure to disclose that the real property was the site of a homicide, felony, or suicide. 

Are any of those three material adverse facts? Perhaps, however, you are under no obligation to stigmatize the property. This week’s question is a short one; however, it is important to know what your obligations are as a licensee.

If you have any additional questions, contact the Virginia REALTORS^® Legal Hotline. (Be sure you’re logged in!)

What is the Legal Hotline?

The Legal Hotline is a member benefit that has been supporting members for over 25 years. Our team of lawyers answers your important questions about real estate transactions quickly and accurately (usually within three business hours!).

Bonus! Here are some tips to help make the Legal Hotline work for you!

Information accurate as of 03/09/23