By: Barry Stone
Dear Barry
I am about to purchase a home that belongs to a disabled person in a wheelchair. Therefore, there are some alterations to the house that are unusual. Both entryways have ramps rather than stairs, the height of electrical switches is lower than usual, and special hardware has been installed in the bathroom. Are these considered to be defects, and does the seller have a responsibility to change these conditions? - Ruth
Dear Ruth,
When a property is altered for the convenience of a disabled person, these changes do not constitute defects, even though such conditions could affect standard use by persons not in a wheelchair. In that light, disclosure of such conditions would be advisable for the seller, but restoration of the building to its original condition is not required. Nevertheless, all conditions are negotiable in the course of a real estate purchase. Therefore, changes to the property are always open for discussion between buyers and sellers.
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