Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the frequently asked questions that are commonly asked about home inspections and radon testing. If you still have more questions, feel free to call or let us know in the contact page.
Home Inspection FAQs
Q: How long does an inspection take?
A: Typically 4 hours. Documentation and pictures are taken as the house is inspected. This assures all the details are written down with pictures as it is found. It also helps us be more efficient with out time. Larger properties take more time since there typically is more to inspect (multiple HVAC systems, multiple kitchens, multiple attic spaces, etc.)
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Q: May I be present during the inspection?
A: Yes, as long as it is communicated with any real estate agent you are working with. Typically we ask that you wait until the inspection is complete. Waiting until the end gives us time to see the property to answer any questions you may have about the property that is being inspected.
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Q: How much does an inspection cost?
A: That depends on the size of the property you would like to have inspected. Larger homes have more to inspect such as bathrooms, kitchens, attic spaces, HVAC systems, and electrical systems. Each house or property is different. Each property is researched before the inspection and the cost is given before the inspection takes place.
Radon Testing FAQs
Q: We don't live in or have a finished basement, do I need a radon test?
A: Yes, radon enters each home through the ground and any walls or floors that have contact with the ground. Radon is also dispersed throughout each home through the HVAC system. Typically houses with basements have the HVAC system located in the basement. Since air flow is circulated with HVAC systems that provides a great way for radon to be evenly dispersed throughout a home.
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Q: How long does a radon test take?
A: Typically 48 hours. That amount of time gives us enough data to know what the average level is in each home. Continuous radon monitors are used which take air samples each hour. After 48 hours the average of each sample are used to determine the concentration of radon in each home. Radon levels change frequently depending on atmospheric conditions and time of day (radon levels at night are higher than during the day).
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Q: How much does a radon test cost?
A: That depends on where you live. If you are located in the same zip code our business is located you will have a lower cost compared to a property that is 30 miles away. Radon testing requires specialized equipment that is calibrated each year to assure accuracy. Two visits to each property are required to set up the equipment and retrieve the equipment.
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Q: Do you install radon mitigation systems?​
A: We do not. A license is needed to perform radon testing depending on what state you live in. In the state of Iowa a license is required to test and to install mitigation systems. We are licensed to provide testing.
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Q: Why do my exterior windows and doors need to remain closed during the radon test?
A: Closed house conditions are required during a radon test to determine what the worst case scenario is (no fresh air from outside). Northwest Iowa and Southeast South Dakota have several months during the winter where homes have exterior doors and windows that are closed because it's cold outside in the winter. During that time radon levels can build up in homes. We want you to know what are the levels during that scenario. Also wind can have a major factor in radon levels if windows on the opposite side of the house of the direction of wind. Wind can pull more radon into your home if it creates a low air pressure.​​
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