2-Minute Reads

Does the Seller See the Home Inspection Report?

This is a common question, and the answer might surprise you: in most cases, the seller does not automatically receive a copy of the home inspection report. Here’s how it works and why.

1. The Report Belongs to the Buyer

When a home inspection is ordered, it’s typically paid for by the buyer. As a result, the inspection report is considered the buyer’s property. We provide the report directly to them (and sometimes their agent, with permission), but it’s up to the buyer to decide whether to share it with the seller.

2. Sellers Might See the Report During Negotiations

While the seller doesn’t automatically get a copy, the buyer might choose to share parts of it if they’re requesting repairs or negotiating the price. For example, if a roof needs significant work, the buyer could provide the relevant section of the report to back up their request.

3. Pre-Listing Inspections Are Different

If the seller orders a pre-listing inspection to identify and address potential issues before putting their home on the market, they will receive the report directly. In this case, the seller owns the report and can choose to share it with potential buyers.

4. Why This Matters

For buyers, the report is a tool to help you make informed decisions. For sellers, it’s helpful to understand that the inspection report isn’t automatically shared—it’s something the buyer controls. This keeps the process fair and focused.

The Bottom Line

In most cases, the seller doesn’t see the inspection report unless the buyer decides to share it. As home inspectors, our role is to provide an unbiased and thorough assessment to the buyer, ensuring they have all the information they need.