Asked in Real Estate Law for Illinois

Q: I buy property at the Sheriff's Auction in Lake County IL. When do I actually assume liability for the property?

Is it the day of purchase or the day the court confirms the sale and gives me the deed? What happens if the house is damaged before I get the deed, who is responsible? And at what point do I need insurance?

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1 Lawyer Answer

A: You are responsible for any owner-negligence when you receive the deed. But you should have insurance immediately to protect your interest; I doubt that the sheriff or the court is insuring the property.

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