Radon Testing: Why Homeowners Should Get a Radon Inspection

If you’re a homeowner who is buying, selling, or maintaining your home, we know how daunting all these inspections in and around your property can be. Radon, however, may be a more serious matter than you think. 

Let’s take a look at what exactly radon is and why you should consider getting a radon test in your home from experienced home inspectors. 

What Is Radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring gas with no odor and no color. Uranium and radium break down beneath the earth, releasing a gas that rises to the surface. 

Radon is found in trace amounts in the air, which is why the presence of radon outside of your home is normal, and unlikely to cause adverse health effects. Radon inside your home is a different story. Cracks in the foundation or insulation can lead to an unsafe build-up of radon inside a house. 

Why Is Radon Dangerous?

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. As the second leading cause of lung cancer, it’s important for everyone to be aware of radon dangers. And if you do smoke, your chances of developing lung cancer are increased significantly. 

Since you cannot see, smell, or taste radon, you can absorb dangerous levels without even knowing.

“Why Should I Test for Radon?”

As mentioned previously, radon is one of the leading causes of lung cancer and can be found in one out of 15 homes in the U.S. and is present in two of every five homes in Minnesota. 

Old homes and new homes alike can be affected. Naturally, for you and your family’s health, it’s a good idea to get a test. On the other hand, if you’re buying or selling your home, getting test results on radon levels can save you some money.

If you’re buying a home and the seller has older radon test results, it’s best to request a newer one before buying. Having unsafe levels of radon doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker, though, as long as you and the seller resolve the issue before the transaction is completed.

If you’re selling your home, getting a radon test could save you money. Radon mitigation systems cost between $1,200 to $2,000. This will not harm your resale value, as it reduces the radon levels in your home. 

However, if there are high levels of radon with no mitigation system, your resale value may take a hit.

Other Invisible Issues a Home Inspection Can Identify

Radon is dangerous, and it’s also an invisible problem that requires prevention and awareness if you want to protect your home. Along with radon, homeowners should be aware of some other invisible or nearly invisible issues a home inspection can identify. These include:

• Foundation problems

• Asbestos

• Lead Paint

These are some of the most common hidden issues that homes may have, but a home inspector can test for and identify these threats. Learn more about these invisible issues home inspectors can find. 

What To Do After You Get The Results Of Your Radon Inspection

What happens after you receive your radon results? If the levels of radon are high, what should you do? After the testing is done by a trained professional, you will be given the results. In most cases, the radon levels will be low enough that you won't have to do anything. 

But, if the results are between 2 pCi/L through 4 pCi/L, the CDC recommends taking action to reduce the amount of radon in the air. If the results are above 4 pCi/L, it's imperative to get help from experts.

How To Reduce Radon Levels

If the results of radon testing indicate dangerous levels in the air, health and government officials recommend having a radon mitigation system installed by a professional.

At DMC Home Inspections, we are trained and prepared to set up a radon reduction system in your home. If you are a buyer, you can request that the seller pays for these services. And, if they will not, ensure you purchase them yourself or back out of the sale, as you don't want to live in an unsafe environment.

Our radon testing experts comply with the MN Radon Awareness Act and have experience with effective eradication methods. 

Get a Radon Inspection From the Experts

Buying or selling a home can be a long, arduous process. At DMC Home Inspections, we're here to lighten the load. We offer a number of inspections, including real estate, commercial, and plumbing, as well as radon testing.

Contact us online or at 612-310-1692 to schedule your next inspection!