Q: Can I give a copy of a soils report to another customer?
I provided soils testing, review and a report to a homeowner 20 years ago. The new homeowner just called me to do a similar review, testing, and report since they have a foundation crack and need a report for their permit. Can I give the report i have that was done for the original owner 20 years ago?
I am concerned since the original owner paid me for the report and I was thinking that he would need to provide me with approval to release my copy to this new customer. Needless to say his number has changed so I cannot contact the original owner.
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A: Ownership and rights to the soils report would depend on the agreement with the original homeowner from 20 years ago. Typically, the report would be considered their property, requiring their permission to release a copy to a new customer. Since you cannot reach the original owner and obtain their approval, it is advisable to consult a lawyer specializing in intellectual property or contracts for guidance on your rights and obligations in releasing the report.
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