Leaking Skylights and a shady inspection

[Janice McGahey]

I recently purchased a home with skylights that leaked. The former owner said he was going to have his buddy (who worked as a roofer) fix the leaks. Well, the first rain we had the skylights both leaked, we called his "buddy" and he said he was only told to replace the roof on that side not fix the flashing around the skylights (which is where it leaks). His "buddy" then proceeded to tell us that for $150 dollars he would fix the flashing so it wouldn't leak. We called the former owner to discuss this and he doesn't think he needs to pay for it. Does he?

Also, I recently discovered (after re-reading my docs) that the former owner (who was a bug inspector) did the bug inspection on this property. Well, needless to say we had another company come out to do an inspection (after closing) and he said it was infested with carpenter ants and mice. Is it legal to do your own inspection on a house you are trying to sell? Isn't that a biased opinion?

Thanks for any information you can possibly give me in this regard!
Janice

 

[HomeGuru]

Yes, it is legal but it is aunethical and a conflict of interest. It is your fault for accepting these things. You should have specified in your contract that:
1) the pest control inspection be completed by a licensed company chosen by the Buyer.
2) the roof/skylights be repaired by a licensed roofing company selected by the Buyer. Seller will forward invoices and warranty.

 

[Janice McGahey]

Thanks for your response. I guess I just learned a costly lesson but............ hey, what comes around goes around, right! Thanks again!

 

[HomeGuru]

You're welcome.