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How To Negotiate With Contractors For Repairs After A Home Inspection

Oct 25, 2024

3 min read

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Its important to the team at Hynesight to provide actionable knowledge to our clients, partners and property owners alike. Navigating repair negotiations with contractors after a home inspection can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can ensure your investment is protected. Let’s dive into some best practices, common repair issues, and how to choose the right contractors for the job.


repairs completed after negotiating with the contractor
Home Repairs after a home inspection

Common Repair Issues and Estimates

Here are some unique and common repair issues we often encounter:

  • Roof Leaks: Roof leaks can occur due to missing shingles, damaged flashing, or poor installation. Minor repairs, like replacing a few shingles, might cost around $200. However, if the entire roof needs replacement due to extensive damage, costs can range from $5,700 to $16,000 depending on materials and roof size.

  • Foundation Cracks: Cracks in the foundation may signal settlement issues or water intrusion. Sealing a small crack might cost about $500. For more serious structural reinforcements, such as underpinning or wall stabilization, costs can exceed $10,000.

  • Electrical Problems: Outdated wiring or insufficient outlets can pose safety hazards. Installing a new outlet typically costs around $100. If you need to upgrade an electrical panel to accommodate modern appliances and safety standards, expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000.

  • Plumbing Issues: Common problems include leaky faucets or corroded pipes. Fixing a simple under-sink leak usually costs about $300. For more extensive work like re-piping an entire house due to aging pipes, costs can range from $3,500 to $7,500.

  • Basement Flooding: Flooding often results from heavy rains or poor drainage systems. Installing a sump pump is crucial for preventing water accumulation and typically costs between $1,000 and $2,500. Additionally, regrading the yard to improve drainage might cost between $800 and $1,500.


Choosing the Right Contractor

Understanding who to call for specific repairs is crucial:

  • General Contractors: Best suited for overseeing large projects like kitchen renovations or whole-house remodels. They coordinate various tradespeople and manage permits and inspections.

  • Specialized Contractors: These professionals focus on specific trades such as plumbing or electrical work. They are essential for technical tasks requiring compliance with codes and standards.

  • Handymen: Ideal for minor repairs and basic maintenance tasks such as fixing leaky faucets or assembling furniture. They offer versatility but may lack specialization for complex issues.


Negotiation Tactics

  1. Leverage the Inspection Report: Use it as a basis for your requests by highlighting major concerns that affect safety or value.

  2. Request Repair Credits: Instead of having sellers make repairs, ask for credits at closing. This gives you control over who does the work and ensures quality.

  3. Set a Budget Limit: Communicate your repair budget to the seller to establish clear boundaries for negotiations.

  4. Highlight Local Market Conditions: In Brantford’s competitive market, leverage conditions to negotiate lower prices for repairs by emphasizing urgent needs.

  5. Flexible Solutions: Be open to alternatives like reduced prices instead of full repairs if it benefits both parties.


Real World Example of Local Brantford Buyer

A buyer in Brantford discovers roofing issues estimated at $5,000 during an inspection. Using the report as leverage, they negotiate a $5,000 credit at closing to hire their preferred roofer, ensuring quality work on their terms.


Best Practices for Contractor Selection

  • Research and References: Look up reviews online and ask past clients about their experiences with potential contractors.

  • Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain several estimates to compare pricing and scope of work to ensure fair pricing.

  • Verify Licensing and Insurance: Ensure contractors are licensed and insured to protect against liabilities and ensure compliance with local regulations.


The Role of Hynesight Inspections When Negotiating With Contractors For Repairs

Our detailed inspection reports provide you with the information needed to negotiate effectively. We help identify major issues early on, allowing you to make informed decisions that maximize your property's value and safety.



Negotiating repairs after a home inspection doesn't have to be stressful. By prioritizing major issues, choosing the right contractors, and leveraging professional inspection reports from Hynesight Inspections, you can protect your investment and ensure your new home is safe and sound. For peace of mind in your real estate journey, consider booking an inspection with us today!

Oct 25, 2024

3 min read

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4

0

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