The process of purchasing a home requires a good amount of inspection and research, even in the best of situations. When there are concerns that may be hidden or invisible, it becomes all the more important for those looking to buy a home to perform their due diligence.
Radon is a natural occurring radioactive gas that is colorless and odorless. It is practically undetectable without the use of specialized detection equipment. The presence of radon is a home hazard of concern because not only can it not be seen, smelled or tasted, the Surgeon General has stated that radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers in the United States today.
Radon is generated through a natural process in the ground and is found in most soils and well water. Because radon can enter a home through cracks or gaps in the floors and walls, basements and crawl spaces are common high-risk areas in a home.
Radon testing is now included in the home inspection process (thankfully!) So...what happens if the home you are looking to purchase measures 4 pCi/L or higher, the level that the EPA has deemed to pose a risk?
This has indeed happened during the home inspection process for a few of our clients and we can tell you first-hand that there is a solution, a radon remediation system, which is typically the responsibility of the home seller to install and cover the cost of. A radon mitigation system most often consists of a vent pipe and a fan. The vent pipe goes down through the foundation, and the fan draws up the radon and ventilates it outside the home. In short, if you do your due diligence, you will protect yourself and your family.
Home mitigation systems can vary on whether a home has a full or half-basement, crawlspace or concrete slab. They are usually always made more effective when any cracks are properly sealed. Regular radon testing should continue after mitigation has been completed.
And if you ever are in need of a proven home inspector or would like to talk through any part of the process, we are here for you.
Yours to Count On,
Corby Thomas
-Thoughtful Real Estate-