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Idaho REALTORS® RE-10 Inspection Contingency Notice Explained

At Real Estate Two70, inspection contingencies are one of the most important — and most misunderstood — phases of a real estate transaction. The Idaho REALTORS® RE-10 Inspection Contingency Notice is the form used to formally communicate a buyer’s decision after completing inspections.

This page explains what the RE-10 is, when it’s used, what each section means, and how buyers and sellers should understand their options under Idaho contracts.


What Is the RE-10 Inspection Contingency Notice?

The RE-10 is a legally binding notice used in Idaho real estate transactions to document how a buyer is responding to the inspection contingency in the Purchase and Sale Agreement.

It is not the inspection itself. It is the buyer’s formal response to inspections after they have had the opportunity to complete them.

Once signed by both parties, the RE-10 becomes an integral part of the Purchase and Sale Agreement. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}


When Is the RE-10 Used?

The RE-10 is typically used:

  • After inspections have been completed
  • Before the inspection contingency deadline expires
  • To notify the other party of the buyer’s decision

If the RE-10 is not delivered on time, the buyer may lose inspection-related rights depending on the contract language.


Who Uses the RE-10?

  • Buyers — to communicate inspection decisions
  • Sellers — to review, agree to, or respond to buyer requests
  • Real estate brokers — to properly document the contingency outcome

The form is issued by the Idaho Association of REALTORS® and is intended for use by licensed real estate professionals. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}


Key Sections of the RE-10 Form

Notice Information & Property Details

The top portion of the RE-10 identifies:

  • The date of the notice
  • The related Purchase and Sale Agreement
  • The property address
  • The buyer and seller names

This ties the notice directly to a specific transaction. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}


Buyer Confirmation of Inspections

The buyer confirms they had the opportunity to complete inspections and that:

  • Inspectors were chosen by the buyer
  • Inspections were conducted in a diligent and competent manner
  • The seller is not released from responsibility for known defects

This section protects both parties by documenting how inspections were handled. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}


Option 1: Removal of Inspection Contingency

Under this option, the buyer:

  • Unconditionally removes the inspection contingency
  • Accepts the property in its current condition (subject to other contract terms)

This means the buyer is no longer relying on inspections as a basis to renegotiate or terminate. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}


Option 2: Items to Be Addressed

This is the most commonly used option. The buyer:

  • Removes the inspection contingency subject to specific requests
  • Lists requested repairs, credits, or price changes
  • Preserves walk-through and other inspection rights

The RE-10 allows the parties to agree to:

  • Seller credits at closing
  • Price adjustments
  • Repairs, service, or replacement within a set number of days

If repairs are agreed to, the buyer has the right to re-inspect only the specified items and may not unreasonably withhold acceptance. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}


Inspection Types Covered

The RE-10 allows buyers to specify which inspection contingencies are being addressed, including:

  • Primary inspection
  • Well water testing
  • Septic inspection and pumping
  • Survey
  • Other specified inspections

Addressing one inspection does not waive unrelated inspection rights. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}


Option 3: Termination Provision

If inspection results are deemed unsatisfactory, the buyer may:

  • Terminate the Purchase and Sale Agreement
  • Request return of earnest money (if still refundable)
  • Release brokers from liability related to earnest money disbursement

This option must be exercised within the inspection contingency timeframe. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}


Why the RE-10 Matters

The RE-10:

  • Formally documents inspection decisions
  • Prevents ambiguity or verbal misunderstandings
  • Protects buyer and seller rights
  • Becomes enforceable once signed

Mistakes with the RE-10 are one of the most common sources of disputes in Idaho transactions.


How Real Estate Two70 Approaches the RE-10

At Real Estate Two70, we treat the RE-10 as a decision document, not a pressure document.

Our role is to help clients:

  • Understand each option clearly
  • Assess inspection findings realistically
  • Communicate requests precisely
  • Avoid accidental waiver of rights

We encourage thoughtful review before signing — not rushed responses.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is the RE-10 required after every inspection?

Yes. If the purchase includes an inspection contingency, a formal response is typically required.

Can a buyer change their mind after signing the RE-10?

Once signed and accepted, the RE-10 becomes binding and limits future inspection-based actions.

Does the RE-10 replace the inspection report?

No. The inspection report is separate. The RE-10 communicates how the buyer is responding to it.

Can sellers reject repair requests?

Yes. The RE-10 documents buyer requests; seller agreement is required for changes to be binding.


Related Idaho Buyer & Seller Resources

  • Buyer Representation Explained in Idaho
  • Home Inspections in Idaho Explained
  • Understanding Agency Relationships in Idaho
  • Meet Our Idaho Real Estate Agents

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