Bill > H0106

This bill modifies Vermont's real estate disclosure laws to enhance flood risk transparency when selling property. The legislation aims to ensure buyers are informed about potential flood hazards by requiring sellers to provide a physical or electronic copy (or digital link) of the official Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood insurance rate map for the property. While previous law required sellers to disclose whether a property was in a special or moderate flood hazard area, this bill removes those specific requirements and instead mandates providing the actual flood map. Sellers must still disclose any past flooding or flood damage experienced while they owned the property and whether they maintain or are legally required to maintain flood insurance. If a seller fails to provide the required information, buyers can terminate the contract before title transfer and potentially seek damages, including attorney's fees and punitive damages for knowingly withholding information. The bill includes a protection for sellers who relied on written reports from professionals or public bodies. The new requirements will take effect on September 1, 2025, giving real estate professionals and property owners time to adapt to the changes.

Housing and Urban Affairs, Justice

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.106