Guide to Estimating Home Repairs and Maintenance Costs

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.   I'm buying a home in Idaho.  Can I have the home checked for RADON

      A.   Yes.  Please discuss this with us prior to your scheduled inspection, because we will need to bring special equipment to perform this test. At the same time, let us know of any other special concerns you may have, so that we can make any required special arrangements in advance.

Q.   Can I have the water (City or well) checked for lead contamination?

      A.   Yes.  Let us know in advance if you'd like us to take water samples and have them evaluated by a Certified Laboratory.  It may also be beneficial to contact the City and obtain their testing results.

Q.   Should I be there at the time of the inspection?

      A.   Yes, if at all possible.  Being there will allow you to:

               - ask questions of the Inspector,

            - see how the inspection is conducted, and

            - learn more about your home.

Q.   How long should I plan to spend at the inspection?

      A.   A thorough, complete Home Inspection takes at least 3 hours, sometimes longer.  Larger buildings over 3000 square feet will take longer.  In addition, our policy is to spend as much time with you as you require and to explain the findings of the inspection to you.

Q.   When will I receive the written report?

      A.   The same day, at the conclusion of the inspection if you just want a hand written report.  Within two days for documented photos and a typed up report emailed to you.

Q.   What will be included in the report?

      A.   As applicable, condition of the structure, basement, heating and cooling systems, plumbing, bathrooms, electrical, kitchen, attic, interior and exterior walls, windows, doors, roofing, grounds, and more will be contained in the written report.

Q.   When should I request a Home Inspection?

      A.   As soon as possible, after you become aware that you want one, is the time to give us a call.  Normally, this happens when a seller accepts a buyer's offer.  Usually, there is a contingency built into the offer allowing for a Home Inspection, within a limited number of days.  Schedule the inspection so the results can be reviewed and properly used.  Don't wait and rush the inspection.

Q.   When may I have my Home Inspection?

      A.   Six (6) days a week (Monday - Saturday), during daylight hours.  At Royal Inspection, we try to schedule inspections at your convenience.

Q.   What should I do if you find a problem?

      A.   Most buildings will have some problems.  No home is perfect.  The Home Inspector may find defects that you may not have noticed when you first viewed the home.  Most of these defects can be easily repaired or tolerated as is.  Seldom would one of the defects be reason not to purchase the home.  You should discuss any defects or concerns with the Home Inspector.   You should also discuss these with your Real Estate professional, who will advise you on how to proceed.

Q.   How do I pay for the Home Inspection?

     A.   Payment in full will be expected at the end of the inspection, prior to receiving and discussing the report.  This allows the Home Inspector and you to focus on the inspection without any financial concerns.  We accept cash, check and money orders.