Radon Testing in Real Estate: A Buyer's Guide

What is Radon and What Does it Do?

Radon, a colorless, odorless, and radioactive gas, can pose a serious health risk if it accumulates in your home. As a prospective homebuyer, understanding the importance of radon testing and knowing how to protect yourself and your family is crucial.

Do you need radon testing in a Home Inspection?

When it comes to buying or selling a home, there are countless factors to consider. From location and amenities to price and home condition, it is essential to leave no stone unturned. One crucial aspect that often goes unnoticed but deserves significant attention is radon testing. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) recommends that all houses, regardless of what radon zone the house is in, be tested for radon during point of sale. The most common procedure for radon testing during real estate transactions is for the seller to include a radon test as part of the overall home inspection. Radon is a gas that is proven to pose serious health risks if left unchecked or unmitigated. 

Why is Radon Testing Important? 

Health Risks: Radon exposure has been linked to lung cancer, especially among smokers.
State and Local Regulations: Many states and municipalities have radon testing requirements for real estate transactions.
Peace of Mind: Knowing the radon levels in your potential home can provide you with peace of mind and help you make informed decisions.

*Before purchasing a home: Radon testing should be done before signing the purchase agreement.
*When renovating or remodeling: Changes to your home can affect radon levels.

How Does Radon Testing Work?

Radon testing typically involves placing passive radon detectors in various areas of your home for a period of 48 hours. These detectors measure the amount of radon gas present in the air.

Radon and its Risks: 

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is released from the ground and can seep into any living area through cracks and openings. Prolonged exposure to elevated levels of radon can lead to lung cancer, making it the second leading cause of this deadly disease. This invisible threat can affect any home-- new or old, regardless of age or location. 

What Should You Do if Radon Levels Are High?

If a radon test results show elevated levels, don't panic. There are effective radon mitigation systems and solutions readily available to reduce radon concentrations to safe levels.

Protecting Homebuyers and Real Estate Agents: 

For buyers, radon testing is an essential step in the due diligence process. A comprehensive radon test conducted by a certified professional can provide peace of mind and ensure that the property is safe to occupy. If high radon levels are detected, buyers could negotiate mitigation measures with the seller or factor potential remediation costs into their decision if they would proceed with purchasing.  

 

In addition to that a real estate agent may injure her credibility if he/she sells a home that is high with radon levels - endangering the future owners. 

* Our Tips for Homebuyers and Future Home Owners:

• Research local radon regulations: Understand the specific requirements in your area.
• Include a radon testing contingency in your offer: This allows you to terminate the contract if radon levels are unacceptable.
• Consider radon mitigation costs: Factor in the potential cost of mitigation when making your offer.
• Ask your real estate agent about radon testing: They can provide valuable information and resources.
• Have a deep understanding on the importance of why radon testing exists and taking proactive steps to address all issues, you can protect yourself and your family from the health risks associated with radon.

Appraising and Preserving Property Value: 

For sellers, conducting radon testing and disclosing the results before putting their home on the market can improve the chances the home will sell. Demonstrating a commitment to a safe living environment gives buyers confidence in their investment. If the home has already undergone radon mitigation, providing documentation of the mitigation system's effectiveness can further enhance the property's appeal and value. Check our radon map to see if your area is affected with high levels!

Health and Safety: 

Radon testing in real estate transactions prioritizes the health and safety of occupants. By identifying and addressing radon levels before closing a deal, buyers can ensure that their new home is a healthy environment for their loved ones. Sellers, however, demonstrate responsible homeownership by proactively addressing potential radon concerns or health hazards. 

Radon testing should be an integral part of every real estate transaction. It protects buyers, preserves property values, and promotes the health and safety of everyone.  

Being health-responsible can create healthier homes and communities for everyone.