Insider Discussion – Failed Repairs? Who Is Responsible?
Insider Discussion – Failed Repairs? Who Is Responsible?
Are agents on the hook for failed repairs during a real estate transaction?
If repairs weren’t done right, it’s on the seller—but the agent should’ve verified them. Always get before-and-after pics or receipts before you close.
I hope this information was helpful! If you are considering buying or selling a home, I would love to talk to you. I am a seasoned agent with over 24 years of experience in the local real estate market. I would love to be able to get you the financial result you desire from your current home to get you in to that Dream Home! Don’t hesitate to call me anytime at 260-579-1516 or you can email me at mike@mikearchbold.com.
Are Real Estate Agents Responsible For Failed Repairs?
When you’re buying or selling a home, repair requests are a common part of the negotiation. Maybe the inspection revealed issues with the roof, plumbing, electrical, or HVAC system. The seller agrees to fix it before closing. So everything should be good to go… right?
Not always. And when repairs aren’t done correctly, who’s responsible? The seller? The agent? The buyer? Let’s break it down clearly so you know how to protect yourself.
Who Is Responsible for the Repairs?
When a seller agrees to complete repairs as part of the purchase agreement, the responsibility to complete those repairs properly falls on the seller. They either hire a contractor, perform the work themselves, or provide a credit to the buyer instead.
However, there’s an important detail that often gets overlooked.
What About the Real Estate Agent?
A real estate agent does not personally guarantee the quality of repairs.
But they are expected to use reasonable care to make sure:
- The repairs were actually completed before closing.
- The work was done by a licensed or qualified professional when required.
- Documentation is provided so the buyer knows exactly what was done.
In other words, your agent can’t act like a contractor, but they should be verifying, not just trusting.
What Good Verification Looks Like
If you’re the buyer, here’s what you and your agent should request before closing:
- Before-and-after photos
- Itemized receipts with contractor details
- Warranty information when available
- A final walk-through specifically checking the repaired items
This is not overkill. It’s good business and protects everyone.
Common Repair Problems
Here are a few situations where issues often arise:
- Seller hires an unlicensed handyman to “patch” a serious issue.
- Repairs are rushed right before closing and corners get cut.
- Buyer assumes repairs were completed and doesn’t verify them.
- Agent doesn’t follow up because they don’t want to seem pushy.
Skipping verification is the fastest way to end up with an expensive surprise later.
What Happens If Repairs Weren’t Done Right?
If repairs are incomplete or done poorly and you catch it before closing, you have options:
- Request that the seller fix the work correctly.
- Negotiate a price credit.
- Delay closing until repairs are verified.
If you discover the problem after closing, it becomes harder. You may still have legal avenues, but they require more time, documentation, and sometimes counsel.
This is why verifying repairs before closing is so important.
Final Takeaway
- The seller is responsible for repair quality.
- The agent should be verifying what was completed.
- The buyer should never assume repairs were done without proof.
Taking a few minutes to document repairs can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of frustration later.
If you’re preparing to buy or sell and want a smooth, well-managed transaction, I’d be happy to help walk you through it.
Michael J Archbold
Associate Broker, REALTOR, ePro
RE/MAX Results
8101 Coldwater Rd
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
c. 260-579-1516
e. Mike@MikeArchbold.com
w. www.MikeArchbold.com
Oh, by the way… if you know of someone who would appreciate the level of service I provide, please call me with their name and business number. I’ll be happy to follow up and take great care of them.
Why Does RE/MAX Results Stand Out Among the Competition?
Simply put: Relationships. We pride ourselves not only in our professional service but more importantly in the personal touch we bring to our business. Has an agent/lawyer/contractor/vendor ever treated you like you were just another paycheck? The reason our clients come back time and again and refer all their friends and family to us is because they know we are part of the family.
Genuinely caring about the people we serve enables us to do things other agencies can’t. Rest assured, we will ALWAYS have your best interest at heart and work vigorously to get you the best deal possible on your home or business. The relationships we build with our clients enable us to work 100% by referral.
The reason we are able to give top notch service to our clients is because our clients refer us a constant stream of quality family and friends to assist in their real estate needs. While other agents are out making cold calls and chasing “potential” leads, we are freed up by our referral base to service our clients like no other broker can. We are never too busy for your referrals!
Want to experience the difference for yourself? Call or text me today at 260-579-1516.
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Are you or someone you know considering a home purchase? Don’t hesitate to call or text me, Michael Archbold, at 260-579-1516 and I will connect you with the best mortgage professionals in the business who can get you your score, discuss ways to improve it if necessary, and put you on the path to home ownership. Click here to read more about our Buyer Services. Click here to browse listings NOW! Looking to sell your home? Call today to set up an appointment to begin developing your customized marketing plan. Click here to read more about our Seller Services.
Hoosier Home Listings by RE/MAX Results is a full service real estate Web site serving Northeast Indiana. We assist residential and commercial clients in locating, buying, and selling real property in the State of Indiana including but not limited to the counties of Allen, Huntington, Wells, Adams, Whitley, Wabash, Kosciusko, Noble, Dekalb, Lagrange, Steuben and cities including Fort Wayne, Decatur, Bluffton, Huntington, Warsaw, Columbia City, Butler, and Angola. RE/MAX Results is an Equal Housing Opportunity company.
Hoosier Home Listings – Insider Discussion – Failed Repairs? Who Is Responsible? …
… brought to you by Michael Archbold, Hoosier Home Listings, and RE/MAX Results.
The consummate professional, Michael Archbold (Associate Broker, REALTOR, ePro) brings a diversified background to the world of real estate. Born and raised in Fort Wayne, Mike graduated Wayne High School in 1992. He received bachelors degrees in Accounting in 1997 from Indiana University and Information Technology in 2005 from Indiana Wesleyan University. Mike comes to Re/MAX with more than 20 years of experience in sales and accounting. He began his career in real estate in 2000 as an investor.
