Bill > HB618

This bill introduces new requirements for sellers of residential real property in Georgia regarding flood damage disclosures. The legislation defines "flood" broadly to include inundation from rising waters, overflow of water bodies, tidal surges, hurricanes, and rapid accumulation of standing water from storms. Sellers of one-to-four family residential properties must now disclose any known flood-related information during their ownership, including physical damage, insurance claims for flood losses, repairs made due to flooding, notifications about the property being a repetitive loss structure, and any federal requirements to obtain flood insurance. These disclosures must be made in writing before the property sale, identifying the approximate dates and nature of any floods or repairs. The bill also stipulates that willful omission of these disclosures can be considered an unlawful act under the Fair Business Practices Act. Additionally, the bill clarifies that sellers and real estate professionals are not required to conduct independent investigations about flood history. As a supplementary provision, the bill also introduces a $1,500 fine for filing frivolous mechanic liens, with potential additional attorney's fees or court costs. The new law is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

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https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70749