Find a home inspector you can trust with Frontline Property Inspections
ASHI Background Verified Inspector
An affiliate of the St. Louis Assocation of Realtors
Spectora home inspection reporting software
Find a home inspector you can trust with Frontline Property Inspections
As a homeowner or potential buyer, one of the most critical factors to consider during a property inspection is radon. This colorless, odorless, radioactive gas can be present in any home, regardless of age or location, and is a significant health concern due to its link to lung cancer. At Frontline Property Inspections, we provide detailed property inspections, including radon testing, to help you protect the safety and integrity of your home.
Radon is a serious concern, but what exactly is it, and why should it be a key focus during a property inspection? Will the presence of radon cause a home to fail an inspection? In this blog, we’ll answer these questions and explain why radon testing is a crucial part of any property inspection.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that results from the decay of uranium, thorium, and radium in the Earth’s soil, rock, and water. It can enter houses through foundation fissures, spaces around pipes, and other structural openings. Since radon is invisible and odorless, it can accumulate at high levels without detection.
Radon exists in homes nationwide, with levels varying based on location and the type of foundation. Areas with higher concentrations of uranium in the soil tend to have more radon. However, radon can be present in any home, regardless of location or age.
Radon enters a home primarily through the basement or lower levels, as it typically moves upward through the foundation. This means that even homes in areas not typically associated with high radon levels can still have it present. It’s also important to note that radon levels can fluctuate over time, meaning that testing is essential for accurate results.
In short, radon itself won’t necessarily cause a home to fail an inspection, but it is a serious concern. A property inspection evaluates a home's overall condition, and radon testing plays a key role in this process.
High radon levels discovered during an inspection can raise concerns for potential buyers due to the serious health risks the gas poses. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advises taking action if radon levels surpass 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). At these levels, prolonged exposure can increase the risk of lung cancer.
Radon remediation systems can effectively lower radon levels to a safe range. These systems typically involve installing ventilation pipes and fans to vent radon outdoors. While radon testing alone doesn’t cause a home to fail an inspection, it may raise concerns and necessitate remediation to meet safety standards.
We provide thorough radon testing to help you identify the presence of this dangerous gas and take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of your home. Our inspectors use the latest testing methods to provide accurate readings and guide you through any necessary remediation processes.
Radon testing is essential, as it’s the only way to detect this invisible, odorless gas, which can go undetected for years. Prolonged exposure to high radon levels increases the risk of lung cancer in non-smokers. Proper mitigation reduces radon levels, minimizing health risks. Identifying issues early is crucial for avoiding long-term problems.
Whether you're buying a new home or looking to ensure your current property is safe, radon testing should be a priority. Our team offers comprehensive radon testing as part of our property inspection services, helping you understand the radon levels in your home and take action if necessary.
We follow a strict protocol for radon testing to ensure accurate and reliable results. The process usually involves placing a radon testing device in the lowest livable area of the home, such as the basement or crawl space. The test usually takes 48 hours to provide an accurate reading of the radon levels in the home.
Radon tests are typically categorized into two types: short-term and long-term. Short-term tests last anywhere from 2 to 90 days, while long-term tests take more than 90 days and provide a more comprehensive picture of a home’s radon levels over time. During a property transaction, we typically conduct short-term tests, while long-term tests provide a more comprehensive view of a home's radon levels throughout the year.
After completing the test, we analyze the results and provide you with a detailed report. If radon levels exceed the EPA’s recommended action level of 4.0 pCi/L, we’ll help you take the next steps, including installing a radon mitigation system.
We specialize in providing thorough, reliable property inspections, including radon testing. Our experienced inspectors utilize cutting-edge equipment and methods to provide the most accurate results. We understand that radon testing is not just about meeting regulatory requirements but also about providing peace of mind for homeowners and buyers alike.
Whether you're purchasing a home, selling a property, or simply want to ensure your home is safe, our radon testing services give you the information you need to make informed decisions. If we detect high radon concentrations, we’ll explain your mitigation options and help you bring them down to a safe level.
Radon is a serious health risk that can be present in any home, and radon testing is an essential part of any comprehensive property inspection. Although radon itself won't cause a home to fail an inspection, elevated levels pose significant health risks that require immediate attention. At Frontline Property Inspections, we offer thorough radon testing to help you identify potential risks and take the necessary steps to ensure your home is safe for you and your family. If you’re in need of a property inspection or radon testing in your area, don’t hesitate to contact us.