Under which circumstance may an inspector perform repairs or maintenance?

The scenario where an inspector may perform repairs or maintenance typically arises in the context of a client agreement. This is because, in many professional settings, including home inspections, there are clear boundaries regarding an inspector's role to ensure impartiality and avoid conflicts of interest. A client agreement allows for a mutual understanding and formalizes the conditions under which repairs or maintenance might be acceptable, provided that such actions do not compromise the inspector's objectivity or create a conflict with their responsibilities.

In contrast, earnest money contracts or exchanges of real property are legal agreements that govern the sale or transfer of property but do not pertain directly to the inspector's authorization to perform repairs. Verbal consent, while it may seem permissive, often lacks the necessary formalities or documentation that a client agreement provides, making it a less secure and reliable foundation for undertaking such work. Therefore, a client agreement best aligns with the professional standards and ethical practices expected of inspectors in this context.