That’s a chilling discovery for anyone, especially new homeowners. If you find yourself in this situation, Here are the steps to take in order to handle this matter appropriately and legally:
1. Avoid Disturbing the Scene: It’s crucial not to disturb any potential evidence at the scene. Don’t touch or move the skeleton or any items around it.
2. Contact the Police: Immediately call your local police department to report your discovery. They will be able to take over from this point and will carry out any necessary procedures.
3. Provide Information: Provide any information to the police that you feel may be relevant. This can include details about the previous occupant or anything unusual you noticed in or around the property.
4. Cooperate with Police: Cooperate with them fully to aid their investigation. They’ll likely have a lot of questions and may need to access the property multiple times.
5. Seek Legal Advice: Consult a lawyer to understand your rights in these unusual circumstances. They can give advice about any legal responsibilities or issues that may arise from the discovery.
6. Notify the Real Estate Agent or Seller: Inform your real estate agent or the person who sold you the house about the discovery. If the seller was aware of these circumstances and did not disclose them, there might be legal implications.
7. Seek Emotional Support: Finally, don’t underestimate the psychological impact of such a discovery. Seek support from professional counselors or psychologists if necessary.