Property Disclosure Statement (British Columbia-specific)

Understand how the Property Disclosure Statement works in British Columbia, what sellers must reveal, and why it’s important for buyers.

Property Disclosure Statement (British Columbia-specific)

May 22, 2025


What is a Property Disclosure Statement (PDS)?

A Property Disclosure Statement (PDS) in British Columbia is a legal document completed by the seller to disclose known issues or defects with the property being sold.

Why Do Property Disclosure Statements Matter in Real Estate

The PDS is a crucial part of many real estate transactions in B.C., offering transparency to buyers and legal protection to sellers. While not always mandatory, it is commonly included in offers to purchase.



The form asks sellers to disclose issues related to:
  • Structural problems
  • Past water damage or flooding
  • Roof or plumbing defects
  • Unauthorized renovations
  • Environmental concerns (e.g., oil tanks, asbestos)


If a seller knowingly omits a defect, they may be liable for damages—even after the sale. For buyers, the PDS serves as an early warning system and can inform decisions on whether to proceed or request further inspections.


Understanding the PDS helps buyers make informed offers and protects sellers by providing a record of what was disclosed at the time of sale.

Example of a Property Disclosure Statement in Action

A seller in Kelowna fills out a Property Disclosure Statement and reveals a prior plumbing leak in the basement that was repaired in 2022.

Key Takeaways

  • Used primarily in B.C. real estate.
  • Outlines known property defects.
  • Protects both buyer and seller.
  • Can be legally binding if included in offer.
  • Encourages full transparency in transactions.

Related Terms

  • Seller Disclosure Statement
  • Home Inspection
  • As-Is Sale
  • Material Latent Defect
  • Real Estate Law

Additional Terms

Bridge Financing

Bridge financing is a short-term loan that helps homebuyers cover the financial gap between buying a new property and selling their existing one.. more

Bridge Loan

A bridge loan is a short-term financing option that allows homeowners to borrow against the equity in their current property to fund the purchase of. more

Firm Offer

A firm offer is a legally binding agreement to purchase a property that contains no conditions. Once accepted, it commits both the buyer and the. more

Foreclosure

Foreclosure is a legal process through which a lender takes ownership of a property when the borrower defaults on their mortgage payments.. more

Closing Costs

Closing costs are the various fees and expenses that buyers and sellers must pay to finalize a real estate transaction, separate from the property’s. more

Assignment Sale

An assignment sale occurs when the original buyer of a property (the assignor) sells their rights in the purchase agreement to a new buyer (the. more

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