Expert: Michael McClure - 1/29/2008

Question
In july of 2007, I purchased a used mobile home in the state of Minnesota.  Before purchasing, we asked why there was a false ceiling installed.  We specifically asked "does the roof leak?"  the person we purchased from insisted that the roof does not leak and that it was installed for appearance only.  Shortly after we moved in we had a problem with a leak.  now there are several!  The ceiling is completely saturated in at least half of the kitchen and other places throughout the home.  Is there anything we can do to make him pay for the repairs? He blatently lied to us and now and we will be stuck fixing a roof that leaked before we bought.  Thank you for any information that you can help me with on this issue.  Jennifer Rhodes

Answer
Hi Jennifer,
I will assume that you purchased this without going through a dealer.
Did you go through an escrow company?  Federal law requires that a disclosure statement be signed by both parties...this forces the seller to state any issues that they are aware of.  It is quite detailed, and should be part of your closing documents.  This is very valid, and can be used in court.  If you don't have the statement, you can still go to small claims court, and present estimates of repair, and roofer's guess as to how long it has been in poor condition.....judges are compassionate toward buyers in these sort of circumstances....let me know the outcome...."~ M

PS write if you have anything else