COLUMBUS, Ohio (WKRC) – Ohio homeowners were reminded that while they are not required to disclose if they believe their home is haunted, there are several other disclosures required by state law.

Transparency in real estate transactions is essential, and sellers should be aware of the required disclosure checklist. These include problems with water supply, sewer systems, roofs, plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC, structural components, and any water intrusion or wood-destroying insects.

Homeowners must also disclose any knowledge of hazardous materials, underground storage tanks, abandoned wells, flood plains or the need for flood insurance. In addition, drainage or erosion issues, past or present zoning issues, rebates and homeowners association information must be shared.

Boundary disputes, such as driveways or walls shared with other owners, were also required disclosures.

“These disclosures not only cover known problems that have occurred, but also any repair or inspection history from the previous 5 years,” said Daphne Hawk, Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing at the Ohio Department of Commerce.

For properties built before 1978, a lead paint disclosure was required to inform potential buyers of the health risks, especially to young children. Failure to disclose this information could result in a huge fine, a year in jail, or a civil lawsuit.