Understanding “The Last Man In” Theory
Even though our advice often reflects the most sensible course of action, many contractors are hesitant to take on these repairs. This is all because of something called the "Last Man In" theory. Basically, contractors worry that if they’re the last ones to touch the roof and it ends up leaking, they'll get blamed—whether it's their fault or not.
So, instead of doing a small repair that carries a high risk of future blame, they might prefer to suggest a full roof replacement. Not only does this cover them against potential liability, but it also means a bigger job (and more money) for them. It makes sense from their perspective, even if it seems like overkill to you.
Understanding this can help you set more reasonable expectations when you’re dealing with home repairs. Contractors might lean towards the safer, more extensive option, while our goal is to give you the most accurate and cost-effective advice for your home’s current state.
Why the Most Recent Advice Tends to Stick
There’s more to the "Last Man In" theory than just contractors covering their bases. It’s also about how we, as homeowners, tend to believe the most recent expert advice we hear, even if it contradicts what we were told before.
As home inspectors, we often end up being the "first man in." This means we’re the first to give you our professional assessment, but unfortunately, that also means our advice is often overshadowed by the next opinion you hear. If a contractor comes in after us and says something different, it’s natural for you to trust the latest advice, even if it conflicts with ours.
This dynamic can be frustrating, but understanding it can help you navigate the inspection and repair process with a clearer perspective. Our goal is always to provide you with the best, most accurate information right from the start, even if it might not always be the final word you hear.
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