Avelar Expands Property Disclosure Report Requirements for Home Buyers

SPRINGFIELD, Ill.- In an effort to improve transparency for prospective homebuyers, state Rep. Dagmara ‘Dee’ Avelar, D-Romeoville, has introduced new legislation that would require sellers to include the known age of a property’s roof in the residential real property disclosure report. 

“Buying a home is one of the most important financial decisions families make,” said Avelar. “Ensuring buyers have clear information about the age of a roof helps them make informed decisions, plan for potential future repairs, and avoid unexpected costs after closing.”

Avelar’s House Bill 2559 amends the Property Disclosure Act in Illinois to require that the age of the roof be disclosed in Disclosure Reports by property sellers before a sale is finalized. Currently, the reports only disclose material defects and hazardous conditions, such as structural and water issues in the roof, basement and walls, lot disputes, soil and Earth stability and any past or active pest infestations. This bill applies to all types of properties and buildings. 

“In today’s market, the age of a roof can directly affect whether a homeowner is able to secure or maintain homeowners’ insurance,” Avelar said. “Providing this information upfront allows buyers to better understand potential insurance requirements and financial responsibilities before completing a purchase. Homebuyers deserve access to the information that can impact both the value of their investment and their ability to protect it. This proposal simply ensures that buyers have the knowledge they need to make responsible decisions and avoid surprises after moving into their home.”