Can a buyer hold me accountable for home repairs if they didn’t perform an inspection before purchasing?
Short answer. In most cases, no, a buyer generally can’t come back after closing and hold you responsible for repairs if they chose to skip the home inspection. When a buyer waives their inspection, they’re essentially accepting the home as is, including any issues they didn’t uncover beforehand.
That said, there are two big exceptions buyers sometimes try to lean on. First, undisclosed known defects. If a seller knew about a serious problem and intentionally hid it, that can open the door to legal trouble. Second, state‑required disclosures. If something should’ve been disclosed under your state’s laws and wasn’t, the buyer may have a case. But simply skipping the inspection doesn’t give them automatic leverage.
Most of the time, once the deal closes, the buyer owns the home and the responsibility that comes with it. Skipping an inspection is a gamble, and the risk usually falls on the buyer, not the seller.
Disclaimer
This is general information, not legal advice. If you’re dealing with home repair issues or wondering about your rights, it’s always best to speak with a qualified real estate attorney who can look at the specifics of your situation.