B.C. property buyers must be reimbursed for cost of cleaning up after ‘hoarder’: tribunal

A British Columbia couple has been ordered to pay $5,000 to the buyers of their property to cover the cost of cleaning up items left behind by a former tenant described as a "hoarder.”

The Civil Resolution Tribunal (CRT) ruled that the sellers failed to disclose the condition of the property, which was filled with debris and personal belongings. The buyers discovered the mess after taking possession and had to hire professionals to remove the items.

The tribunal found that the sellers were aware of the tenant's hoarding behavior but did not inform the buyers. This omission was deemed a misrepresentation, leading to unexpected expenses for the new owners.

In its decision, the CRT emphasized the importance of full disclosure in real estate transactions. Sellers are obligated to provide accurate information about the property's condition to avoid disputes and ensure fair dealings.

The $5,000 compensation covers the cleanup costs incurred by the buyers. The tribunal's ruling serves as a reminder for sellers to be transparent and for buyers to conduct thorough inspections before finalizing a purchase.

This case highlights the legal responsibilities of property sellers in B.C. and the potential consequences of failing to disclose significant issues affecting a property's condition.