Issue after survey--who pays for work?

[pinksky]

We are in the process of buying a house and the survey raised some issues with the roof/chimney. We have had two roof inspections subsequently, and it looks like it'll need a new roof in the near future. Some of the main issues could be patched, but given the cost of scaffolding etc it seems pointless not to do the whole thing in one. Quotes for a new roof are c 5k inc VAT

Do we ask the vendors to contribute to this cost? We hadn't banked on having to re-roof, so will need to find the money. It feels reasonable to request that they pay some of this, especially given we'll have to go through the upheaval of having it done. For information, we have agreed a sale price that's higher than we wanted to go, but we really want the house and the market is strong here.

Any advice gratefully received!

Just tell 'em the survey says the property needs a new roof which will cost X and therefore you will be reducing your offer price by X amount to take this into account.

Thanks, Pesto, glad you think that's reasonable. If they say no then I think we're stuffed as we don't want to lose it.

no, they don't pay or have it done. They are leaving. They knock it off the price and you have it done when you own the place.

if they won't reduce then it is your choice whether you pay or walk away.

The quotes you've received can be your starting point for a negotiation on your new purchase price.

Either your solicitor can broach it, or if you have a relationship/ dialogue with them, you could arrange a meeting.

The market may be strong but if they choose not to sell to you, they risk having to tell any future prospective buyers about why you pulled out. Plus the roof will be an issue to a new buyer anyway.

I'd hope they agree to the whole 5k but be satisfied with a 50/50 split I think.

Thank you for responding. We've mainly been dealing with the EA, so might have to put the new offer through them. As you say, EMS23 it would be great if they agreed to the full cost, but 50/50 would be acceptable.

A similar issue came up when I bought my first house. We agreed to split the cost 50/50 based on quotes that we had obtained to do the work.

Did you discuss it directly with the vendors, blowitout? Just debating whether to go in asking for the full 5k or explain that we'd be willing to split... They've dug their heels in on other things so I'm not hopeful. before the inspections EA told me that they don't believe there's anything wrong with the roof

Pinksky, I would leave the negotiations to the Estate Agents, it's part of their job and they want a successful sale as much as you do!

You're right, Pesto-- I'll get in touch with them, and also try to chill a little