Short answerGet the details in writing when you agree to repairs: who does the work, licensed trades where required, permits when needed, and receipts. Before closing, ask for invoices and photos, and consider a reinspection of the items. Check them again at the final walkthrough. If something is not done, raise it before you sign.
What to ask for
- Invoices from the contractor, with the address and scope.
- License numbers where the trade requires them. Indiana licenses plumbers statewide; electrical licensing is handled locally.
- Permits and final inspections where required.
- Before and after photos.
Then check at the final walkthrough.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have my inspector come back?
Yes. Many inspectors offer a reinspection for a fee.
What if the repair is not done by closing?
Talk to your agent right away. Options include delaying closing or an escrow, if the lender allows.
Keep reading
Looking at a house and not sure what you are getting into?
Ask for a free Before You Offer review. Send me the listing. I look over the photos, the seller's disclosure, and recent sales, then flag likely condition issues and planning cost ranges before you write an offer.
Request a Before You Offer reviewOr call or text (812) 525-5489, or email [email protected].
The Before You Offer review is a REALTOR® and contractor review of the listing, not a home inspection. It is for buyers who are not already working with an agent. If you have an agent, please bring these questions to your agent.
Written by John Long, REALTOR®, 1 Percent Lists Indiana Real Estate. Working contractor who has priced hundreds of home inspection repair requests. Former labor relations negotiator for a major manufacturer and U.S. Coast Guard veteran.
John Long, REALTOR® · 1 Percent Lists Indiana Real Estate · (812) 525-5489 · yourpropertynegotiator.com
This page is general information, not a substitute for a professional home inspection, and not legal, tax, insurance, or lending advice. Ask a real estate attorney about contracts and disclosure, a CPA about taxes, your lender about loan rules, and a licensed inspector or tradesperson about your house. Nothing here guarantees a sale price, net proceeds, repair cost, payment, timeline, appraisal, inspection result, or loan approval. Cost figures are planning estimates, not bids. I own Wardmark Property Operations LLC, a contracting company. You are always free to use any contractor you choose.