An unresolved code violation is more than just a minor annoyance; it’s a financial liability that grows over time. What starts as a simple notice can quickly escalate into daily fines, and if those fines go unpaid, the county can place a lien on your property. This legal claim can stop you from selling or refinancing your home, effectively freezing your asset. Understanding the serious consequences of inaction is the first step toward protecting your investment. This article explains the real-world impact of ignoring Palm Beach property violations and provides a clear, step-by-step plan for addressing them quickly and efficiently, helping you avoid costly penalties and secure your property’s financial future.
Key Takeaways
- Stay ahead of potential issues: Proactively check your property for common problems like unpermitted additions or expired permits using the county’s online records. Identifying issues yourself is the easiest way to avoid an official notice and costly fixes.
- Treat a violation notice with urgency: Ignoring a notice can lead to daily fines, property liens, and major problems when you try to sell or refinance. Responding quickly shows you’re serious and puts you on the path to a faster, simpler resolution.
- Know the path to resolution: Correcting a violation involves a clear process: respond to the notice, get the right permits for repairs, and schedule all required inspections. If you feel stuck, working with a professional can streamline the entire process and give you peace of mind.
What Is a Palm Beach Property Violation?
Getting a notice about a property violation can be stressful, but understanding what it means is the first step to resolving it. In Palm Beach County, a property violation is simply a formal notice that your property doesn’t meet the local codes or ordinances. These rules aren’t arbitrary; they are put in place to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the entire community. Think of them as the standards that keep our neighborhoods safe, functional, and beautiful for everyone.
Violations can cover a wide range of issues, from the way your property is used to the structural safety of your buildings. You might receive a notice from different local agencies, such as the Palm Beach County Code Enforcement Division, your city’s Building Department, or even the Fire Department. Each one has a specific area of focus, but their shared goal is to ensure compliance with established regulations. Whether it’s a minor issue like an overgrown lawn or a major problem like unpermitted construction, addressing it promptly is key. Ignoring a notice can lead to daily fines, property liens, and other complications, so it’s always best to face it head-on. The good news is that every violation has a solution, and there are clear services available to help you through the process.
Zoning Violations
Zoning violations happen when a property is used in a way that isn’t allowed by its designated land use category. Local governments create zoning maps that divide areas into districts for residential, commercial, or industrial use, and each district has its own set of rules. The goal of Palm Beach code enforcement is to make sure these rules are followed to maintain the character and function of a neighborhood.
Common examples include running a business from a home in a strictly residential zone, building a fence that is too high for your area, or constructing an addition that sits too close to your property line. These regulations help prevent conflicts, like a noisy workshop opening next to a quiet family home, and ensure that development is orderly and predictable.
Building Code Violations
Building code violations are related to the technical standards for construction and building safety. These codes are essential for protecting people and ensuring that structures are sound and resilient. The Florida Building Code sets the minimum requirements for everything from electrical wiring and plumbing systems to structural integrity and fire resistance. Ignoring these standards can create serious safety hazards and lead to significant problems down the road.
Common violations include using improper materials, performing faulty electrical work, or making structural changes without an approved plan. Failing an inspection due to a code violation can halt your project, result in hefty fines, and even lead to legal trouble. Following building codes isn’t just about passing an inspection; it’s about ensuring the long-term safety of your property and everyone in it.
Property Maintenance Violations
Property maintenance violations are often the most visible and are typically handled by your local code enforcement department. These rules focus on keeping properties in a clean, safe, and well-maintained condition to protect community health and property values. The primary job of code enforcement is to ensure that basic health and safety standards are met across the neighborhood.
You might receive a notice for issues like an overgrown lawn, trash and debris accumulating in the yard, or having an inoperable or unregistered vehicle parked on the grass. Other common violations include unsecured swimming pools, which pose a serious safety risk, or exterior walls with peeling paint. Addressing these issues helps maintain a positive and safe environment for you and your neighbors.
Unpermitted Work and Expired Permits
One of the most serious types of violations involves unpermitted work. This is any construction, alteration, or repair project done without first obtaining the required permits from the local building department. Many property owners don’t realize that even seemingly small projects, like replacing a water heater or moving an interior wall, often require a permit. Doing this work without approval can create hidden dangers and major headaches later on.
Similarly, an expired permit can cause problems. This happens when you get a permit for a project but fail to schedule the final inspections to officially close it out. In either case, the work is not legally recognized, which can prevent you from selling or refinancing your property. The only solution is to legalize the unpermitted work by retroactively obtaining permits and passing all necessary inspections.
Common Palm Beach County Property Violations
Navigating property regulations can feel like a lot, but understanding the most common issues is the first step to staying on the right side of the law. Palm Beach County’s code enforcement aims to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the community. This means ensuring every property, from a single-family home to a large commercial building, meets specific standards.
Violations are not just about major construction mistakes; they can be as simple as a neglected lawn or an improperly parked boat. The county’s main goal is to achieve voluntary compliance, helping property owners fix issues before they escalate into bigger problems with fines and liens. Knowing what inspectors look for can help you spot potential problems on your own property and address them proactively. Below are some of the most frequent violations that property owners in Palm Beach County encounter.
Unpermitted Construction and Illegal Additions
One of the most serious and common violations is performing construction without the required permits. This includes projects like converting a garage into a living space, adding a bathroom, building a new deck, or even putting up a large shed. Palm Beach County’s code enforcement exists to make sure all building work follows local safety and zoning rules.
When you skip the permitting process, you also skip the required inspections that ensure the work is safe and up to code. This can create hidden dangers from faulty electrical wiring, unstable structures, or improper plumbing. If you are caught, you will likely have to go through the expensive and time-consuming process of legalizing the work, which can sometimes involve tearing down the addition and starting over.
Overgrown Yards and Poor Maintenance
Your property’s appearance matters not just for curb appeal but for community health and safety. Code enforcement regularly addresses issues like overgrown grass and weeds, unmanaged landscaping that obstructs sidewalks, and general property neglect like peeling paint or broken fences. The City of West Palm Beach emphasizes that a key part of code enforcement is upholding health and safety rules for the entire community.
An unkempt yard can attract rodents and other pests, create fire hazards during dry seasons, and lower property values for you and your neighbors. Maintaining your property is a straightforward way to avoid a notice of violation and contribute to a safe and attractive neighborhood.
Junk, Debris, and Inoperable Vehicles
Leaving junk, trash, or inoperable vehicles on your property is a clear violation of local codes. This includes items like old appliances, discarded furniture, piles of debris, or cars that are visibly disabled with flat tires or missing parts. These items are considered a public nuisance because they are unsightly and can pose a safety risk.
For example, abandoned appliances or vehicles can become a dangerous playground for children, and accumulated debris can attract pests. Lake County, like Palm Beach, lists “abandoned or disabled property” and “trash and debris” as frequent code violations. Keeping your property clear of junk is an easy way to stay compliant and avoid a citation.
Improper Parking for Boats, RVs, and Commercial Vehicles
Florida is a paradise for boat and RV owners, but you need to know the rules for parking them on your property. Many residential areas in Palm Beach County have specific ordinances that restrict where and how you can store recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, and commercial vehicles. Often, these vehicles cannot be parked in the front yard or on the street for extended periods.
These rules exist to maintain neighborhood aesthetics and ensure that large vehicles do not obstruct views or create traffic hazards. If you own an RV, boat, or work truck, check your local zoning regulations to understand the specific parking requirements for your neighborhood to avoid an unexpected violation notice.
Signage Violations
Signage rules apply to both businesses and residents and are a common source of violations. This can include putting up a sign without a permit, using a sign that is too large for your property, or placing signs in the public right-of-way, such as on utility poles or at intersections. Even temporary signs, like for a garage sale or a political campaign, have rules about their size, location, and how long they can be displayed. The goal is to prevent visual clutter and ensure signs do not create safety hazards by blocking a driver’s line of sight.
Zoning and Land Use Violations
Every property in Palm Beach County is located in a specific zoning district, which dictates how the land can be used. A zoning violation occurs when a property is used for a purpose not permitted in its designated zone. A classic example is operating a full-scale commercial business from a home in a neighborhood zoned strictly for residential use. Other examples include building a structure that is too close to the property line or having too many unrelated people living in a single-family home. The county’s Code Compliance division focuses on education to help property owners understand and follow these important land use rules.
How Palm Beach County Code Enforcement Works
Dealing with code enforcement can feel intimidating, but understanding the process makes it much more manageable. The system is in place to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the community. When rules are followed, it helps keep neighborhoods attractive and can even increase property values. The process follows a clear, structured path from the initial report to the final resolution. Knowing what to expect at each stage can help you address any issues efficiently and avoid unnecessary stress or penalties.
What Triggers a Violation Report
A code enforcement case typically begins when a potential violation is reported. Most often, reports come from neighbors or other community members who notice an issue, like an overgrown lawn or unpermitted construction. In some cases, a code inspector might discover a violation during a routine patrol of the area. The main job of Palm Beach County Code Enforcement is to protect the community by making sure everyone follows local health and safety rules. If you believe there is a code violation in your neighborhood, you can often report it directly to your local municipality through an online portal or by phone.
What to Expect During an Inspection
After a complaint is filed and verified, a code enforcement officer will visit the property to conduct an inspection. Their goal is to confirm whether a violation actually exists. The inspector will document their findings with notes and photographs, creating a record of the property’s condition. They are not there to punish you on the spot; their primary role is to investigate the complaint and ensure the property meets local standards. If a violation is confirmed, the inspector will initiate the formal notification process, which is the first step toward bringing the property back into compliance.
Understanding Notices of Violation and Deadlines
If an inspector confirms a violation, you will receive a formal Notice of Violation. This document is your official notification, and it’s important to read it carefully. It will describe the specific violation, cite the relevant county or city code, and outline the corrective actions you need to take. Most importantly, it will give you a deadline to resolve the issue. Acting promptly is key to avoiding fines and further complications. If you’re unsure how to proceed or feel overwhelmed by the requirements, getting professional assistance with compliance issues can help you create a clear plan of action.
Hearings and Next Steps
If the violation isn’t corrected by the deadline specified in the notice, your case may be scheduled for a hearing. This hearing takes place before a Code Enforcement Board or a Special Magistrate, who will listen to testimony from both you and the code enforcement officer. If the board finds that a violation still exists, they have the authority to issue orders, impose daily fines until the issue is fixed, and place liens on your property. This is why it’s so important to address the violation or request an extension before your case reaches this stage.
The Legal Side: Florida Statute Chapter 162
The code enforcement process is governed by state law, specifically Florida Statute Chapter 162. This statute sets the procedures for how local governments can enforce their codes. One key provision property owners should know is that code inspectors are prohibited from investigating anonymous complaints. A person reporting a potential violation must provide their name and address for the complaint to be considered valid. This requirement helps protect property owners from baseless or harassing complaints, ensuring the process remains fair and transparent for everyone involved.
What Happens If You Ignore a Property Violation?
It can be tempting to set that notice of violation aside and hope it goes away on its own. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. Ignoring a property violation in Palm Beach County doesn’t just create a small headache; it can snowball into a series of serious financial and legal problems. The initial issue, whether it’s an overgrown lawn or unpermitted work, is almost always easier and cheaper to fix than the consequences of inaction. Let’s walk through exactly what you can expect if you choose to ignore a violation notice.
Daily Fines, Penalties, and Property Liens
This is where the financial pressure starts. Once a violation is recorded, the clock begins ticking. Many property owners are surprised to learn that code enforcement can impose daily fines for each day the violation remains unresolved. These fines can add up quickly, turning a minor issue into a substantial debt. If the fines go unpaid, the county can place a lien on your property. This lien acts as a legal claim against your property for the amount owed, and it will stay there until the debt is paid. You can even look up existing violations and fines through the county’s Code Compliance Division to see if a property has outstanding issues.
How Violations Affect Selling or Refinancing
An unresolved violation can bring any plans to sell or refinance your property to a screeching halt. When you sell a home, the title company conducts a search for any liens or legal issues tied to the property. A code violation lien will show up, clouding the title and often preventing the sale from closing until the violation is resolved and the lien is paid. Similarly, lenders are unlikely to approve a mortgage or refinance on a property with outstanding violations. Following local rules helps make the community attractive and maintain property values, so unresolved issues are a major red flag for buyers and banks alike.
The Impact on Insurance and Property Value
Beyond immediate fines, ignoring a violation can damage your property’s long-term financial health. Unresolved code issues, especially those related to unpermitted construction or safety hazards, can make it difficult to secure or maintain homeowner’s insurance. Insurance companies may refuse to cover a property with known risks, or they might cancel your policy altogether. This not only leaves your investment unprotected but also decreases its market value. Potential buyers will be wary of a property with a history of common building code violations, as it signals potential hidden problems and future expenses, forcing you to lower your asking price significantly.
Facing Legal Action and Forced Repairs
If fines and liens aren’t enough to prompt action, the county can take things a step further by initiating legal proceedings. This could mean being summoned to court, where a judge can order you to correct the violation. This process is stressful and can lead to additional legal fees. In some cases, the county may even perform the required repairs themselves (like clearing debris or demolishing an unsafe structure) and then bill you for the work, a process known as forced abatement. The goal of code enforcement is to ensure safety and compliance, and they have the legal authority to compel property owners to follow the rules, one way or another.
How to Report a Property Violation in Palm Beach County
Seeing a property violation in your neighborhood can be concerning. Whether it’s unpermitted construction, a dangerously neglected building, or a yard filled with debris, these issues can affect community safety and property values. While reporting a violation might feel like a big step, it’s a formal process designed to protect the health and welfare of the community. If you’ve spotted a potential problem in Palm Beach County, you have a couple of straightforward ways to bring it to the attention of Code Enforcement. The goal isn’t to get anyone in trouble, but to ensure all properties adhere to the established codes that keep our neighborhoods safe and pleasant for everyone.
Your Reporting Options: Online and by Phone
Palm Beach County makes it simple to report a potential code violation. Your first option is to file a complaint online through the county’s dedicated portal. This system is designed to gather all the necessary information in one place, making it an efficient way to submit your concerns. If you’d rather speak to someone directly, you can call the Code Compliance office at 561-233-5500. Their team is available to take your call Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though they are closed on county-recognized holidays. Both methods will get your report into the right hands for investigation.
What Information to Provide
When you submit a complaint, you’ll need to provide some basic information about yourself. This isn’t to put you on the spot; it’s to ensure the complaint is legitimate and can be properly processed by the county. Be prepared to share your first and last name, a valid email address, a phone number, and your home address. Providing complete and accurate details helps the Code Enforcement team follow up with you if they have questions and ensures the process moves forward smoothly. This information is a key part of a valid and actionable report.
Can You File a Complaint Anonymously?
It’s important to know that you cannot file an anonymous complaint in Florida. Under Florida Statute Chapter 162, code inspectors are prohibited from investigating potential violations based on anonymous tips. This law was put in place to prevent false or malicious reports and to ensure that the county’s resources are used to address genuine concerns. When you file a report, you must provide your name and contact information. This requirement helps maintain a fair and transparent process for everyone involved, from the person reporting the issue to the property owner being investigated.
What Happens After You Report a Violation
Once you’ve submitted a report, the Code Enforcement team takes over. An officer will typically visit the property to investigate the complaint and determine if a violation exists. The primary responsibility of Code Enforcement is to work with property owners to achieve compliance with local regulations concerning building safety, zoning, and property maintenance. If a violation is confirmed, the property owner will be notified and given a specific timeframe to correct the issue. The ultimate goal is to resolve the problem and ensure the property is brought up to code, maintaining the quality of life for the entire community.
How to Find a Violation on Your Property
Discovering a violation on your property can feel overwhelming, but knowledge is power. Whether you’ve received an official notice or just have a hunch that something isn’t right, you can take clear, proactive steps to understand the status of your property. Think of it as giving your property a health checkup. Here’s how you can identify any existing issues and get on the path to resolving them.
Review Your Notice of Violation
If a notice from the county lands in your mailbox, take a deep breath. This document is your starting point and contains all the essential information you need. Read it carefully from top to bottom. The notice will specify the exact code that has been violated, describe the problem (like an unpermitted fence or an overgrown lawn), and give you a deadline to correct it. Instead of seeing it as a penalty, view the notice as a set of instructions from the county. Understanding every detail is the first and most important step in creating your plan to get back into compliance.
Check Online Permit Records
You don’t have to wait for a notice to be proactive. Most counties provide public access to their records, and you can use the Palm Beach County online permit portal to search your address. This is a fantastic way to see your property’s entire permit history. You can check for any permits that were never officially closed out or find records of past work. An open or expired permit is a common trigger for a violation, and finding it yourself puts you in control. Making this a regular practice is a smart move for any property owner.
Access Violation and Lien Records
Beyond permits, you’ll want to search specifically for open violations or property liens. A violation is the issue itself, while a lien is a financial claim the county places on your property for unpaid fines. Liens can prevent you from selling or refinancing, so it’s critical to know if you have any. You can search for code compliance issues through the county’s official channels. This search will tell you if there are any active cases or outstanding fines tied to your address, giving you a complete picture of your property’s standing and helping you avoid any costly surprises down the road.
Spot Unpermitted Work
Sometimes, a violation is hiding in plain sight. Unpermitted work is any construction or alteration done without the proper county approval. This could be anything from a bathroom remodel or a new water heater to a backyard shed or a converted garage. Take a walk around your property and look for any additions or changes that seem out of place. If you’re not the original owner, you can’t be sure the previous owner did everything by the book. If you find something that doesn’t look right, the best path forward is to get professional help to legalize the unpermitted work and ensure your property is safe and compliant.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Resolving Palm Beach Property Violations
Receiving a property violation notice can be stressful, but resolving it is often more straightforward than you might think. The key is to take a methodical approach and address the issue head-on. Ignoring the problem will only lead to bigger headaches like fines and liens. By following a clear set of steps, you can work toward compliance, protect your property’s value, and get back to enjoying your home or investment. This guide breaks down the process into five manageable actions to help you get started.
Respond to the Notice of Violation
The first and most important step is to respond promptly after you receive a notice of violation. The issue won’t disappear on its own, and a quick response shows the county you’re taking the matter seriously. Carefully read the entire notice. It will detail the specific violation, provide a deadline for compliance, and include the contact information for the code enforcement officer assigned to your case.
Don’t hesitate to contact the officer if you have questions. Your goal is to understand exactly what needs to be fixed. Palm Beach County provides resources to help you manage this process, and you can find more information on the Palm Beach County Code Compliance page. Acknowledging the notice is your first move toward a successful resolution.
Pull the Correct Permits
Many violations, especially those involving unpermitted construction or structural changes, require you to pull permits before you can start corrective work. Any fixes involving structural components, electrical systems, or plumbing almost certainly need a permit to ensure the work is done safely and to code. Attempting to fix these issues without the proper permits will only create another violation.
When you apply for a permit, you will likely need to submit plans detailing the proposed work. Once approved, you must follow those plans exactly. This ensures that all repairs meet the strict standards of the Florida Building Code. The permitting process can be complex, which is why our team offers comprehensive permit closure services to handle it for you.
Legalize Unpermitted Work
If the violation is for work done without a permit, your goal is to legalize it. This means taking the necessary steps to make the construction compliant with all local and state regulations. The process typically involves submitting “as-built” drawings, which show the work as it currently exists, and applying for after-the-fact permits.
An inspector will then visit your property to see if the work meets code. In some cases, you may need to open up walls for inspection or even redo parts of the construction to bring it into compliance. Legalizing unpermitted work is essential for clearing the violation, ensuring your property is safe, and avoiding issues when you try to sell or refinance.
Request an Extension or Hearing
Sometimes, the compliance deadline on your violation notice just isn’t realistic. If you need more time to hire a contractor, get plans drawn up, or pull permits, you can formally request an extension. When you make the request, be prepared to explain why you need more time and provide a clear timeline for when you expect to complete the work.
If you believe the violation was issued in error, you have the right to request a hearing. This is a formal meeting where you can present your case to a special magistrate or code enforcement board. You can find more information about this process on the City of West Palm Beach’s website.
Work with a Licensed Professional
You don’t have to handle a property violation alone. Working with a licensed professional can save you time, money, and a lot of stress. Experts who specialize in code violations understand the specific requirements of local building departments and have established relationships with code officials. They can diagnose the problem, create a plan for compliance, and manage the entire process for you.
Our team at Violation Clinic includes licensed building officials, inspectors, architects, and engineers with decades of experience. We handle everything from pulling permits to representing you at hearings, ensuring the work is done correctly and the violation is resolved efficiently. If you’re facing a violation, contact our team for a consultation.
Helpful Resources for Palm Beach Property Owners
Navigating property regulations can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re trying to prevent a violation or resolve an existing one, several key resources are available to help you. Knowing where to turn for information is the first step toward a successful outcome.
Palm Beach County Planning, Zoning and Building Department
Think of the Palm Beach County Planning, Zoning and Building Department as your primary source for county-wide regulations. Their website offers a clear overview of the rules, and what’s especially helpful is their Code Compliance Division, which focuses on education and support. Their goal is to help you understand and follow the codes, not just penalize you for mistakes. This cooperative approach makes it much easier to ask questions and get the right information, so you can resolve issues without unnecessary stress.
City of West Palm Beach Code Enforcement
If your property is within city limits, you’ll also want to get familiar with your local code enforcement office. For example, the City of West Palm Beach’s Code Enforcement division is dedicated to upholding the health and safety standards that keep the community thriving. Their mission is to protect residents by making sure everyone follows the rules that are in place for our collective well-being. While their job is enforcement, their work ensures that neighborhoods remain safe and clean. Checking their specific guidelines is a smart move, as city rules can sometimes differ from county-wide regulations.
The Residential Property Maintenance Guide
Wouldn’t it be great to prevent a violation before it even happens? The county provides a Residential Property Maintenance Guide that acts as a practical checklist for homeowners. This guide is an invaluable tool that outlines best practices for property upkeep, from landscaping to structural maintenance. By following its advice, you can proactively care for your property and steer clear of common issues that lead to code violations. It’s a simple way to stay on top of your responsibilities as a property owner and maintain compliance with local standards, helping you protect your investment.
Florida Building Code References
To truly understand the rules, you need to go to the source. The Florida Building Code is the official set of regulations governing construction and property standards. You can find the specific ordinances for Palm Beach on the Municode website, which serves as a digital library for local laws. This resource is essential for anyone planning a renovation, addressing a violation, or simply wanting to confirm that their property is up to code. It provides the legal framework that inspectors and officials use, so having a basic understanding of it can give you a major advantage.
Professional Violation Resolution Services
Sometimes, reading guides and codes isn’t enough. The violation process can be complex, time-consuming, and stressful, especially when you’re juggling other responsibilities. This is where professional violation resolution services can be a lifesaver. A team of experts, including former building officials and inspectors, can manage the entire process for you. They handle the paperwork, communicate with the county, and develop a clear strategy to bring your property into compliance quickly and efficiently. Working with a professional ensures the job is done right and gives you peace of mind.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the very first thing I should do if I get a violation notice? First, take a breath. The most important thing is to read the notice carefully to understand exactly what the issue is and what the deadline for compliance is. The notice is your roadmap for what needs to be done. Your next step should be to contact the code enforcement officer listed on the document. A quick, professional call shows you are taking the matter seriously and opens a line of communication, which is always a good thing.
The violation is for work done by a previous owner. Am I still responsible for fixing it? Yes, you are. Property violations are tied to the property itself, not the person who owned it when the violation occurred. When you purchase a property, you inherit any existing compliance issues along with it. This is why it’s so important to do thorough research on a property’s permit and violation history before you buy. If you find yourself in this situation, the path to resolution is the same: you must bring the property into compliance.
What if I can’t fix the problem by the deadline on the notice? If the deadline seems impossible to meet, don’t just ignore it. You can formally request an extension from the code enforcement department. It’s best to do this as soon as you realize you’ll need more time. When you make the request, be prepared with a clear reason for the delay and a realistic timeline for when you can complete the work. Proactive communication is much better than letting the deadline pass without a word.
Can I just fix the problem myself without pulling a permit? It depends on the violation. If the issue is simple, like an overgrown lawn, you can handle it yourself. However, if the violation involves any structural, electrical, or plumbing work, attempting a fix without a permit will only create a new, and often more serious, violation. Permits and inspections are required to ensure the work is done safely and meets legal standards. Trying to bypass this process can lead to bigger fines and more complicated repairs later.
How can I find out if a property has violations before I buy it? This is a smart question and a crucial step in your due diligence. You can proactively search for a property’s history online through the Palm Beach County public records portal. Look for any open or expired permits, active code compliance cases, or property liens. This research can reveal hidden issues that the seller may not have disclosed. A clean record gives you confidence in your investment, while a history of problems gives you important negotiating power.