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St. Paul Truth in Sale of Housing Ordinance

The City of St. Paul has provided in its Legislative Code an ordinance concerning the sale of housing within the City's limits known as Chapter 189, the Truth in Sale of Housing Ordinance. This ordinance provides for a Truth in Sale of Housing Disclosure Report that may only be compiled by an independent evaluator who has been tested and licensed by the City.

Failure to obtain a Truth in Sale of Housing Disclosure Report before marketing a house for sale, or failure to make that disclosure report available to prospective buyers is a violation of law and is punishable as a misdemeanor carrying up to 90 days in jail and/or a $700 fine.

This disclosure report is an overview of the building components and fixtures. It is to inform a prospective buyer of the observed condition of a dwelling at the time of the evaluation. The disclosure report is intended to provide basic information to the home buyer and seller prior to the time of sale; not necessarily detailed information. Prospective buyers may also seek additional opinions from various experts in the inspections field prior to purchase.

One and two-family dwellings, town homes, condominiums and co-ops require a Truth in Sale of Housing Disclosure Report whenever there is an intended change in ownership.

The report is valid for one (1) year from the date on the report and is only valid for the owner named on the report.

The ordinance requires an evaluation be done within three (3) calendar days of a dwelling being offered, listed or posted for sale. The Disclosure Report must be conspicuously displayed at the dwelling that is for sale at all times for review by potential buyers. A valid Disclosure Report issued for the dwelling must be provided to the buyer before or at the time of the sale of the dwelling. It is the responsibility of the owner or the dwelling must be provided to the buyer before or at the time of the sale of the dwelling. It is the responsibility of the owner or the owner's agent to comply with these requirements.

Evaluators are private contractors, not employees or contractors of the City. The City does, however, maintain a list of licensed Evaluators and will provide this list (which includes their phone numbers) to anyone requesting it. You may also contact an Evaluator through a REALTOR or agent. The City will not recommend an Evaluator.

You may request a list of licensed Evaluators from the City by calling (651) 266-1900.

MSHI inspectors licensed in Maplewood