Home Buyer's and Seller's Guide to Radon and Radon Mitigation Systems
Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that can accumulate in homes, posing serious health risks. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, accounting for approximately 21,000 deaths annually. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends testing for radon during home transactions to ensure safety.
EPA Recommendations:
- Testing: All homes, particularly those below the third floor, should be tested for radon.
- Homebuyers: Inquire about radon testing results and radon-reduction systems before purchasing.
- Home Sellers: Test your home for radon before listing it on the market; if levels are high, consider mitigation.
Why Test for Radon?
- Prevalence: Radon can be found in homes across the United States, regardless of their age or construction features.
- Unique Levels: Radon levels vary significantly between homes; testing is essential, as nearby homes may have different levels.
- Health Risks: Prolonged exposure to radon increases lung cancer risk, especially for smokers. Knowing your radon levels can help mitigate this risk.
Guidelines for Testing
Home Sellers:
- If your home has been tested, ensure correct protocols were followed. Provide test results to buyers, noting any recent renovations that could affect levels.
- If it hasn’t been tested, conduct a radon test in the lowest suitable living area before listing the home.
Home Buyers:
- Accept previous test results with caution—verify who conducted the test and where it was performed.
- Request a new test if no recent testing has been done or if you plan to occupy a lower level of the home.
Interpreting Radon Test Results
- An average indoor radon level is about 1.3 pCi/L, while levels below 4 pCi/L are still considered risky. The EPA recommends fixing homes if the radon level is 4 pCi/L or more, though even lower levels can carry some risk, especially for smokers.
What to Do if Radon Levels Are High
- Mitigation: If elevated radon levels are detected, take action to lower them, ideally before selling the home. The costs of radon mitigation typically range from 800to2,500, similar to other common home repairs.
- Radon Reduction Systems: Consult qualified contractors to implement effective solutions for lowering radon levels.
