Dear Barry,
As a home buyer, I have to pay for the home inspection, and it seems unfair that others in the transaction should receive copies for free. Am I obligated to give report copies to the sellers and their real estate agent? - Arnie
Dear Arnie,
Two factors determine whether a buyer must provide the agents and/or sellers with copies of a home inspection report:
1) Real estate purchase contracts usually stipulate that copies of reports be furnished to the other parties in the transaction. If your contract is so written, you are legally bound to make the report available.
2) If you submit repair requests to the sellers, based upon the home inspector's findings, then the report will strengthen your negotiating position, and providing copies will serve your best interests.
Otherwise, the home inspector is your private consultant, and the inspection report is for your exclusive, confidential use.
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