We were representing the sellers in a transaction, and the buyer's agent wrote:

Can you let me know if the contractor can repair the defects before the settlement date?

He wanted his contractor to do work on our client's property before the settlement date. This is almost always a very bad idea.

Here's what we wrote back:

"I would have to ask the sellers if they would allow this. However, I'd highly advise against it to protect both your buyers and my sellers because there are so many variables that could cause problems.
What if the contractor causes damage?
What if the contractor does poor work and the buyers can't close - where would that leave my sellers? Etc.
It would be much wiser for the contractor to begin once your buyers take title.

Regards"