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)



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

Additional Terms

Rent Control

Rent control refers to government regulations that limit how much landlords can increase rent for residential tenants each year.. more

Receivership

Receivership is a legal process where a court or secured creditor appoints a receiver to take control of a borrower’s assets, such as property or. more

REALTOR

A REALTOR is a licensed real estate professional who is a member of the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and adheres to its Code of Ethics and. more

Property Use History

Property use history refers to the documented past uses, functions, and occupancy of a property, which may affect environmental risk, zoning, or. more

Property Management

Property management is the oversight and administration of real estate assets on behalf of the owner, covering leasing, maintenance, financial. more

Property Maintenance

Property maintenance refers to the ongoing upkeep, repair, and management of a building or land to preserve its safety, functionality, and appearance.. more

More For You

A rendering of the District Northwest project planned for 13438 105A Avenue in Surrey.

A rendering of the District Northwest project planned for 13438 105A Avenue in Surrey. / Arcadis

In a rare and unfortunate turn of events, the stalking horse bid to take over the District Northwest project in Surrey by Thind Properties has been terminated, according to court documents.

The District Northwest project is set for 13438 105A Avenue in Surrey, a two-acre site located about midway between the Expo Line SkyTrain's Gateway Station and Surrey Central Station. For the site, Thind Properties — through 105 University View Homes Ltd. and District Northwest Limited Partnership — was planning two high-rise towers with a total of 1,023 units.

Keep ReadingShow less
​Le Louvre at 11025 25 Avenue NW in Edmonton, which is currently on the market.

Le Louvre at 11025 25 Avenue NW in Edmonton, which is currently on the market. / Institutional Property Advisors

When there is uncertainty, people naturally look for safe harbour. In the world of commercial real estate, that safe harbour has become multi-family assets, according to commercial real estate brokerage Avison Young.

"Purpose-built rental housing is attracting increased attention from investors to weather the economic uncertainty from the ongoing trade war," said Avison Young in their Spring 2025 multi-family market report. "Investors are drawn to multi-residential assets due to the prospect of owning a positive and stable cash flow asset on day one of acquisition, with a positive, long-term sentiment for rental rate upside."

Keep ReadingShow less
This $9M Seaside BC Estate Is What Daydreams Are Made Of
Sotheby's International Realty Canada

Perched above the storied shoreline of British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast, 1887 Lower Road is the kind of retreat that captures the region’s most coveted offering: a seamless fusion of luxury, nature, and soul-soothing privacy.

Completed in 2023, this 4,666 sq. ft. estate spans 3.7 acres of forested grounds and curated gardens, culminating in 162 feet of private beachfront.

Keep ReadingShow less
This Opulent Alberta Home Boasts An Indoor Pool And Rooftop Fire Pit

Sotheby's International Realty Canada

In a quiet crescent just northwest of Edmonton, one of Alberta’s most distinct custom estates awaits.

But take note: 46 Kingsford Crescent isn’t simply a large home with high-end touches.

Keep ReadingShow less
49-Storey Condo Tower Proposed Near Sheppard-Yonge Subway Station
36-40 Avondale Avenue/DIALOG

A new 49-storey residential building could be headed for a prime development site just north of the Yonge Street and Highway 401 interchange in North York. The project would deliver 504 new condo units in close proximity to surrounding higher-order transit and other amenities.

Plans come from numbered companies 1001081495 Ontario Inc. and 1001081493 Ontario Inc., which filed Official Plan Amendment, Zoning By-law Amendment, and Site Plan Control applications in early May that seek to make a number of changes to the existing policy framework to erect their vision for the site.

Keep ReadingShow less
Striking 3-Bed By Arthur Erickson Listed Along The Grand River

Sotheby's International Realty Canada

One of Canada’s most celebrated modernist architects has left his mark on Cambridge, Ontario — and now, for $3.9 million, you could make it yours.

Hilborn House, a 1974 residence by Arthur Erickson, sits quietly on nearly two acres of riverside land in the city’s exclusive Blue Heron Ridge enclave.

Keep ReadingShow less
A Spa, Sports Court, And Boathouse — This $12.9M Lake Simcoe Home Has It All

Courtesy Engel & Volkers Barrie Brokerage

Hidden behind towering trees in the Southshore Woods neighbourhood of Innisfil is a contemporary waterfront home that is a true sanctuary for both relaxation and entertaining.

Situated on Lake Simcoe, 880 Shoreview Drive is a custom-built home by the original owners that has three structures across 3.4 acres of land with 280 feet of private waterfront shoreline. Recently listed for $12,900,000, the elegant property pops amongst the greenery with its pristine white shiplap exterior.

Keep ReadingShow less
How One GTA Development Firm Is Making Big Moves In A Complex Market

Shutterstock

Elysium Investments has just gone firm on a prime North York parcel at 41-47 Talara Drive, marking its sixth active development site in under three years — and reinforcing its reputation as one of the GTA’s most forward-moving, future-focused real estate players.

The acquisition, located just east of Yonge and Sheppard, sits steps from Bessarion Station — one of the TTC’s most underutilized subway nodes. Elysium sees this as no coincidence, but rather a high-impact opportunity to intensify an area where existing infrastructure is ready for smarter use.

Keep ReadingShow less