“Does a seller have to disclose results from a DIY mold test?”
February 10, 2026
*Please note: Any questions regarding Legal Hotline Spotlights should be submitted via the Virginia REALTORS® Legal Hotline. Our attorneys are unable to respond to questions through our comments section.
Q: “One of my agents is representing a seller. Her client conducted an at-home air quality mold test himself using an over-the-count testing kit. The test revealed there was mold in the home, but it’s unclear to me if the level detected is considered safe. Does her client have an obligation to disclose the results of the test to prospective buyers?”
A: The seller does not have an obligation to disclose the results of the test, but the listing agent likely does. With the exception of certain statutory requirements, sellers are generally not obligated to disclose adverse facts about the property. Listing agents, however, are required to disclose material adverse facts about the physical condition of the property of which they have actual knowledge. Here, the listing agent has knowledge of an adverse result from the air quality mold test. As such, the safest thing for the listing agent to do would be to disclose the result, unless or until a more reliable mold test is conducted that shows the air quality in the home is safe.
Have a question about this article? Submit it to 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!).
Here are some tips to help make the Legal Hotline work for you!
You might also like…
Introduction to VAR’s New Residential Purchase Contract
By Santiago Montalvo - February 23, 2026
Often times, change can be frustrating; however, sometimes change can be for the better. In that spirit, during their February meeting, the Virginia REALTORS® Standard Forms committee approved… Read More
“What can I do if a tenant refuses access to their home for mold remediation work?”
By Sean Olk - February 18, 2026
*Please note: Any questions regarding Legal Hotline Spotlights should be submitted via the Virginia REALTORS® Legal Hotline. Our attorneys are unable to respond to questions through our comments section. Q:… Read More
Lead and You: Property Manager Lead Awareness
By Santiago Montalvo - February 18, 2026
The VAR legal team occasionally receives questions from property managers regarding lead in rental dwellings. Who is responsible for any lead exposure that the tenants may have? What am I responsible for in the home? What am I responsible for outside of… Read More