A Moth-Infested Mansion Leads to a Multi-Million Pound Lawsuit
A wealthy couple, Iya Patarkatsishvili and her husband Dr. Yevhen Hunyak, have won a multi-million pound lawsuit against the seller of their luxury mansion, William Woodward-Fisher. The couple claimed that the house was infested with millions of moths, a fact that Woodward-Fisher allegedly concealed during the sale process.
Patarkatsishvili and Hunyak purchased the lavish Horbury Villa in Notting Hill for £32.5 million in 2019. The property boasted a pool, spa, gym, wine room, library, cinema, and even a "snoring room" designed for peaceful sleep. However, shortly after moving in, the couple discovered a significant moth infestation.
The infestation was so severe that Hunyak reportedly had to swat around 100 moths a day. The couple claimed that the source of the problem was moth larvae nesting in the wool insulation behind the walls and ceilings.
Patarkatsishvili and Hunyak sued Woodward-Fisher for "fraudulent misrepresentation," alleging that he had knowingly concealed the moth problem during the sale. Woodward-Fisher denied the claims, insisting that he had disclosed any previous moth issues to his solicitor.
In a High Court ruling, Mr. Justice Fancourt found in favor of the couple. He concluded that Woodward-Fisher had given "false" answers in the pre-contract questions and ordered him to refund the purchase price of £32.5 million, along with additional compensation and interest.
The total cost to Woodward-Fisher is estimated to be over £36.5 million, including the refund, damages, and legal fees. The couple will now have to vacate the house to allow Woodward-Fisher to sell it and recoup his losses.
This case highlights the importance of full disclosure during property transactions. Sellers have a legal obligation to disclose any known defects or issues that could materially affect the value of the property. Failure to do so can lead to significant legal and financial consequences.
8 Comments
Muchacho
It's about time someone stood up to these dishonest sellers. They think they can get away with anything!
ZmeeLove
It's ridiculous that the couple gets to keep the house after getting their money back. They should have to sell it like everyone else.
Matzomaster
This is just another example of our litigious society. People are too quick to sue over everything.
Habibi
This is a landmark case that could change the way property sales are conducted.
Leonardo
The couple is just trying to get rich off of this situation. They should be happy they got their money back.
BuggaBoom
I hope this story encourages more people to speak out against these kinds of unfair practices.
Katchuka
I don't believe the seller intentionally hid the moth problem. It could have been a genuine oversight.
Eugene Alta
I hope this doesn't discourage people from buying older homes. They often have unique charm and character that newer homes lack.