Buying a house is often one of the biggest financial commitments a person can make. Before signing on the dotted line, buyers typically inspect the property to ensure they know exactly what they are getting.
However, some surprises may still emerge long after the purchase—like hidden defects, unreported renovations, or, in one man’s case, an unexpected tenant living in a secret basement.
Homeowner Stumbles Upon Hidden Basement
According to Sinar Harian, a man in China, identified only as Li, purchased a second-hand home in the city center in 2018 for nearly 2 million yuan (approx. 371,367 SGD).
For years, he lived in the house unaware that it contained a hidden basement. That changed when he accidentally discovered a concealed door behind the staircase.
Upon entering, he was stunned to find a spacious underground room complete with ventilation, lighting, and even a small bar.
The space showed clear signs of recent habitation, making him uneasy about who had been living there.
Former Owner Insists Basement Still Belongs to Her
Concerned, Li reached out to the former homeowner, Zhang. To his surprise, she claimed that the basement was never included in the sale and insisted it was still her private property.
However, Li was certain that his purchase covered the entire house, including the basement. Determined to assert his ownership rights, he took the matter to court.
Court Confirms Li’s Ownership
After a legal battle, the court ruled in Li’s favor, confirming that the basement was indeed part of the property he had bought. Zhang was ordered to vacate the space and pay financial compensation.
With the legal dispute resolved, Li now has full ownership of his home—bringing an end to the bizarre situation and ensuring no unexpected occupants remain.
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