When you decide to sell your home in Okoboji, one of the most important steps in the process is completing the required property disclosures. Iowa law requires sellers to share honest, written information about the condition of the home so buyers understand exactly what they’re purchasing. While it might feel like extra paperwork, these disclosures actually protect both parties, smooth the negotiation process, and help prevent issues after closing.
Below, we break down what Iowa’s disclosure laws require, what information you’ll need to provide, and how to stay compliant throughout your home-selling journey.
Why Property Disclosures Matter in Iowa
Iowa Code Chapter 558A requires sellers of residential properties (1–4 dwelling units) to provide a written Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement to potential buyers. This statement must be delivered before a buyer submits a written offer or before the seller accepts one.
If the disclosure isn’t provided in time, buyers can legally withdraw or cancel their offer—without penalty—within:
- 3 days of receiving the disclosure in person, or
- 5 days if it was delivered by mail or electronically.
These rules were created to ensure transparency, protect buyers from hidden issues, and hold sellers accountable to fair, good-faith reporting.
What Sellers Are Required to Disclose
Iowa requires sellers to disclose any known “material defects”—issues that could affect the home’s value, structural integrity, safety, or desirability. You are not required to hire an inspector to uncover unknown problems, but you must share anything you are aware of.
Here are the main categories covered in the standard disclosure form:
1. Structure & Major Systems
You’ll need to report the condition of:
- Roof and foundation
- Basement or crawlspace (including any water issues)
- Plumbing and electrical systems
- Heating and cooling systems
- Water heater
- Pest issues (termites, rodents, etc.)
- Presence or cleanup of methamphetamine
- Asbestos awareness
For each area, you must indicate whether you’re aware of any issues, list repairs, and provide dates if possible.
2. Environmental Hazards
Iowa takes environmental safety seriously. Sellers must disclose known hazards such as:
- Radon (and attach the Iowa Radon Fact Sheet)
- Lead-based paint for homes built before 1978
- Asbestos, if known
If radon has been tested, you’ll provide the date and results. If not, you can mark “unknown.”
3. Water, Sewer & Utilities
You’ll also need to describe the status of:
- Wells and pumps
- Septic tanks and drain fields (including last cleaning date)
- Public sewer connections
- Past flooding, drainage issues, or water intrusion
These areas help buyers understand potential maintenance costs or future system needs.
4. Property & Site Conditions
This covers a variety of on-site considerations, including:
- Whether the property lies in a floodplain
- Grading and drainage concerns
- Structural settling
- Shared driveways, walls, or fences
- Zoning classification
- Special assessments or improvement district fees
These details give buyers a clearer picture of ongoing obligations tied to the property.
5. Legal & HOA Requirements
If your home is part of an HOA or subject to restrictive covenants (CC&Rs), you must:
- Disclose that information
- Attach relevant documents or state where buyers can access them
Clear communication here is key, since HOA rules can significantly impact a homeowner’s responsibilities.
Your Responsibilities as a Seller
Act in Good Faith
Iowa law requires disclosures to be completed honestly and to the best of your knowledge. You’re not expected to uncover every possible issue—but you are expected to make a reasonable effort to check your records and provide accurate information.
Update the Form if Needed
If you learn something new after submitting the disclosure—such as discovering a roof leak or receiving new inspection results—you must update the form and notify the buyer promptly.
Know How You’re Protected
Sellers who complete disclosures in good faith are protected from liability for defects that are discovered later. The key is transparency; hiding defects can lead to legal trouble, while honest reporting significantly reduces risk.
Step-by-Step: How to Complete Required Iowa Disclosures
- Get the Form
The Iowa Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement is typically provided by your real estate agent, but it can also be found online. - Fill It Out Thoroughly
Answer each question accurately. If a question doesn’t apply, mark “N/A.” If you don’t know an answer after reasonable effort, you may indicate “unknown.” - Attach the Iowa Radon Fact Sheet
This is required for all sellers, regardless of known radon levels. - Explain All “Yes” Answers
If an issue exists—such as past roof repairs or a known drainage concern—you must give details and attach additional pages if needed. - Consult Professionals When Uncertain
Your real estate agent or a real estate attorney can help you understand what must be disclosed and how to do it correctly.
Federal Lead-Based Paint Requirements
If your home was built before 1978, additional federal rules apply. You must:
- Provide buyers with the EPA’s “Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home” booklet
- Disclose known lead-based paint hazards
- Share any records or reports you have
- Include a signed Lead Warning Statement with the contract
- Allow buyers a 10-day period to conduct a lead inspection (unless they waive it)
No other federal disclosures are required beyond lead.
Local Disclosures You May Need in Your Area
Some Iowa counties or cities require additional disclosures related to:
- Radon or asbestos
- HOA rules and fees
- Noise or environmental concerns
- Nearby wind farms, military facilities, power lines, prisons, etc.
- Local hazards or property stigmas (crime, death, etc.)
Your real estate agent can help determine whether any local requirements apply to your home.
The Bottom Line: Transparency Protects You
Selling a home in Okoboji involves more than finding the right buyer—it requires honest communication about your property’s condition. By completing Iowa’s disclosure requirements fully and accurately, you protect yourself from future liability, build trust with buyers, and help ensure a smoother closing process.
If you ever have questions about what needs to be disclosed, the Okoboji Realty team is here to guide you every step of the way. Transparency isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a key part of a successful, stress-free home sale.
