Minnesota Senate Bill SF4980

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/24
• Refer: 3/14/24

Caption

Well disclosure certificates requirements modifications; appropriating money

Impact

The modifications brought by SF4980 would ensure that buyers are well-informed about the well status on the property they are purchasing, thereby enhancing public health and safety. By requiring a formal certificate, the legislation has the potential to reduce environmental hazards associated with poorly managed wells. This structure is anticipated to streamline property transactions by standardizing the documentation process concerning wells, which can significantly influence the real estate market dynamics in Minnesota.

Summary

SF4980 aims to modify the requirements for well disclosure certificates in Minnesota, impacting how sellers of real property must disclose information about wells located on their property. The bill modifies Minnesota Statutes section 103I.235, requiring sellers to provide a well disclosure certificate, which must include detailed information regarding the status and location of all known wells, their usage, and a mapping of their locations. Additionally, a nonrefundable fee of $50 is introduced for the processing of these certificates by the Department of Health. The bill also stipulates the new owners of the property will be held responsible for any wells existing on the property after its sale.

Contention

There may be points of contention in the bill regarding the added bureaucratic steps and costs associated with obtaining well disclosure certificates. Critics might argue that the fee, while not exorbitant, could add an unnecessary burden for both buyers and sellers in the property market. Additionally, there could be concerns regarding the efficiency and reliability of the Department of Health's handling of these certificates and the associated technology system that will be developed for processing them.