The report is leverage only if you use it right. Sort by safety and structure, negotiate what matters, verify what was promised.
First, read the right section. A good report has layers: the full narrative for you, and a repair and safety summary built for negotiation. Send your agent the summary — keep the full report for your own planning. How to read each section →
Safety and structure — electrical hazards, structural movement, active leaks, a failed heat exchanger. These are your negotiation core. Major systems near end of life — a working-but-ancient roof or HVAC. You may not get a replacement, but age-backed findings support credits. Maintenance and cosmetic — drips, caulk, scuffs. Ask for these and you dilute the serious items; plan to handle them yourself.
Seller-completed repairs sound nice but you do not control quality — request licensed-contractor receipts and consider a re-inspection. Credits give you control of the contractor and the standard of work, and they keep closing on schedule. Many agents prefer credits for exactly that reason; talk strategy with yours, since customs vary by market.
Agreed repairs should be verified, ideally with a return visit: same deficiency, new photo, confirmed fix. Get receipts, permits where applicable, and model numbers on replaced equipment — then check the serial dates yourself. How to confirm equipment age →
Still shopping? The 7 findings to take seriously →
Inspectors: deliver summaries that negotiate →
How to read your home inspection report →
Red flags: 7 findings to take seriously →
Equipment age lookup →
← All field notes
