Home Inspectors are Sometimes Wrong

The Jones went to a lot of trouble to insure that their home was in good repair and was fixed up for sale before placing it on the sales market.  The property was attractive and priced to sell.  In a short time there was a contract for sale.

When the buyer’s inspector came to perform the general inspection he found that the roof was on its last legs and recommending spending $5,000 for a new roof.  The Jones were surprised and upset because the roof should have lasted several more years.  They called their roofing contractor who after studying the roof recommended a $500 repair and assured the Jones that the roof would last another three to five more years.  Eventually a third roofer recommended by the buyer was consulted who agreed with the Jones contractor.  The Jones did the $500 repair and the buyer was satisfied with the opinion of the two roofing contractors.

Inspectors are human and can make mistakes.  Do not panic if you get a negative inspection report.  Get a second expert opinion and work to resolve the problem.

The solution is not always this easy, especially when contractors can’t agree.  Keep in mind that there is an element of subjectivity involved in the inspection process.  For example, two contractors might disagree on the remedy for a dry-rotted window:  one calling for repair and the other for replacement.

The buyer normally chooses the inspector and picks up the cost.  If you do not agree with the inspectors report, sometimes finding the right expert to give an opinion on a suspected house problem is the answer.