Missouri House Bill HB2858

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/22
• Refer: 5/13/22

Caption

Prohibits political subdivisions from requiring a home inspection before the sale of residential property

Summary

House Bill 2858 amends chapter 436 of Missouri's Revised Statutes by adding a new section that prohibits any political subdivision from requiring property owners to have a home inspection conducted on residential properties prior to a sale. This legislation is intended to streamline the property sales process by removing what some see as an unnecessary regulatory hurdle that could complicate or delay transactions. The primary goal of HB2858 is to empower homeowners and facilitate smoother real estate transactions. Proponents believe that by eliminating mandatory home inspections for sales, the bill will not only reduce the costs associated with selling a home but also prevent potential buyers from being deterred by inspections that may reveal minor issues. Consequently, it is argued that this would enhance the housing market and promote quicker sales, benefitting both sellers and buyers in the overall market environment. Notably, this bill does not eliminate all inspection requirements. It explicitly notes that the prohibition does not apply to inspections required for new construction or for occupancy permits. This exception acknowledges the necessity of ensuring safety and compliance for newly built properties, while simultaneously easing the burden on sellers of existing homes. The distinction aims to balance regulatory oversight with the desire for a more efficient sales process. However, the bill might raise concerns among parties who argue that mandated inspections serve as an important consumer protection measure. Critics fear that without these checks, buyers could overlook significant defects or issues with a property, leading to unforeseen costs and safety hazards after the purchase. This contention illustrates the ongoing debate between regulatory frameworks that protect consumers and the push for reduced regulations to foster economic activity in the housing market.