What We Look For (And What We Don’t): How to Choose the Right Contractor After Your Inspection

If the first words out of a contractor’s mouth are, “Your inspector missed all this,” you should probably ask them to leave.

I’m not saying we’re perfect—no one is—but I can tell you that shady tradespeople love to throw inspectors under the bus to sell you things you may not even need. If someone’s quoting $8,000 to replace an electrical panel without actually diagnosing a problem, that’s a red flag—not a professional assessment.

No One Knows Everything (And They Shouldn’t Pretend To)

I don’t claim to be a master electrician. And I don’t expect contractors to understand every nuance of a home inspection either. We are different disciplines for a reason. Inspectors look for symptoms. Contractors recommend solutions.

The best tradespeople say things like, “I can see why your inspector noted this,” or “Let me run a few tests and see what’s really going on.” They validate your process instead of trying to discredit it. That’s who you want in your corner.

Don’t Hire a Know-It-All

The guy who says he knows everything about everything? He usually doesn’t. He just knows how to make you feel stupid enough to open your checkbook. That’s not expertise—it’s manipulation.

Look for contractors who:

• Ask to see the report and actually read it.
• Perform their own evaluation before offering a price.
• Give you repair vs. replacement options.
• Explain risks and costs in plain language.

And if they say, “This whole system is garbage, you need to replace it now”? That’s your cue to get a second opinion.

What I Tell Every Client

Bring in a licensed contractor for their opinion and estimate. But don’t let that opinion be based solely on sales pressure or ego. A good pro doesn’t need to trash anyone else to prove their point.

And yes—sometimes you do need a new system. But not before a thoughtful, respectful conversation about why.

FAQs: Hiring Trades After a Home Inspection

Should I show contractors the home inspection report?

Yes. It helps them focus on flagged issues and keeps them honest. Ask them to confirm or clarify, not just critique.

What if the contractor says the inspector missed a bunch of stuff?

Get a second opinion. And ask the contractor to be specific. Most who make vague claims are more interested in upselling than problem-solving.

Is it better to work with a company the inspector recommends?

Often, yes—inspectors work with contractors who understand how to complement our findings, not contradict them for profit. But always do your own vetting too.

Can I ask the inspector to explain something again if the contractor disagrees?

Absolutely. Any good inspector (myself included) is happy to clarify what was observed and what the recommendation was—and why.

→ Next up: Post 48: What Can Still Go Wrong After the Inspection?

← Previously: Post 46: Understanding Your Property’s Exclusions and What to Do About Them

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