Have you discovered a hidden defect after buying your property? Whether it’s water infiltration, cracks in the foundation or soil contamination, a hidden defect can turn the dream of a new home into a real nightmare.
At Lambert Avocats, we understand the emotional and financial impact that such litigation can have. Our team specializes in legal remedies for latent defects and accompanies you every step of the way, from the analysis of the problem to the claim for compensation.
What is a latent defect?
A latent defect is a serious defect that is not apparent at the time of purchase, which significantly reduces the value or normal use of a building. The defect must exist at the time of sale, be unknown to the buyer and seller, and not have been detectable at the time of purchase.
Here are some common examples of latent defects:
- Water infiltration into the basement
- Structural cracks in foundations
- Mould behind the walls
- Presence of pyrite or asbestos
- Faulty roofing or plumbing system
- Drainage, heating or insulation problems
Why consult a latent defect lawyer?
Using a Latent defects lawyer allows you to:
- Getting a clear legal assessment of your situation
- Determine if you are entitled to recourse against the seller (or the real estate broker in some cases)
- Have a solid formal notice drawn up to start the process
- Be effectively represented in court if necessary
- Claim reimbursement for repair costs, loss of value or even cancellation of the sale in some cases
Our strategic approach
At Lambert Avocats, we offer complete support for your case:
- In-depth analysis of the defect, your rights and the documents related to the sale
- Collaboration with qualified experts in building, engineering or environment
- Drafting of formal notice and negotiation with the opposing party
- Legal proceedings, if no amicable agreement is possible
Our objective is to defend you rigorously and effectively in order to obtain the fair compensation to which you are entitled.
Everything you need to know about hidden defects
In order to guide you through the many aspects of this type of dispute, our site provides you with a series of detailed resources:
- Steps to settle a latent defect dispute
- Your rights as a buyer
- Seller’s obligations
- Role of experts in a latent defect case
- How to write a demand letter
- Possible legal remedies
Common cases of hidden defects
Our firm intervenes in a wide variety of latent defect cases, affecting both single-family homes and condominiums. The situations encountered are sometimes simple to diagnose, but often they reveal serious and costly problems, invisible at the time of purchase.
Among the most frequent cases we deal with are water infiltration in the basement, structural cracks in the foundation, or the presence of pyrite in the backfill. We also intervene in cases involving mold hidden behind walls, an outdated or non-compliant electrical system, or major plumbing problems that compromise the integrity of the building.
Defective roofs, insufficient or no insulation, and the presence of vermiculite containing asbestos are also common causes of appeal. Some customers discover contaminated soils after purchase, for example due to buried oil tanks, or face land subsidence or significant drainage problems, sometimes aggravated by a faulty septic system.
In other cases, it is the presence of radon at dangerous levels, termites, or defective central heating or air conditioning systems that raises legal issues.
Regardless of the nature of the defect, our team takes care of all these issues rigorously, collaborating with building experts and engineers if necessary to build solid evidence and protect your rights as a buyer.
Why choose Lambert Avocats?
At Lambert Avocats, we put our in-depth expertise in real estate law and civil litigation at the service of buyers who are victims of latent defects. Our approach is both strategic and human: we take the time to understand your situation, develop a strategy adapted to your needs, and accompany you every step of the way, with rigor and transparency.
If you believe you are the victim of a hidden defect, contact us now for an evaluation of your situation.