Mold and Real Estate Sales in Hawaii: What You’re Required to Disclose

In Hawaii, sellers are required to disclose known material defects. This disclosure includes previous or current mold issues. Even if mold has been removed, failing to document remediation can create legal issues down the line.

Before listing your home, consider a mold inspection to address potential red flags. Having a recent clearance report from a certified mold specialist gives buyers peace of mind and can even increase property value. Whether your home has had mold issues or not, being up-front with the details will go a long way with a buyer, especially if they see that you have already worked with professionals to handle the issue.

In some cases, homeowners paint over mold before listing it to sell. This puts both the new owner and the previous owner in a dangerous situation: health is at risk for the new owner, and the previous owner is now vulnerable to a lawsuit for failing to disclose and covering up a mold issue. Don’t follow in their footsteps! Book an inspection, and let buyers see that you’ve done the work to prepare the property for sale.

We work with real estate agents and homeowners to prep properties for market. If you’re preparing to sell, give us a call to make sure mold won’t cost you the deal.