Radon and Buying a Home
When you’re house hunting, there’s an invisible threat you should be aware of – Radon.
This radioactive gas can be found in any home across Canada, no matter the age or location. What’s unsettling about this gas is that levels can vary wildly from one house to the next—even if they’re just a few doors apart.
Knowing the risks and testing for radon could save you a lot of trouble—and keep you safe—in your new home.
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What is Radon?
Radon is a colourless, odourless, and tasteless radioactive gas that occurs naturally from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It can easily seep into homes through cracks in the foundation, gaps around pipes, and even through the water supply. Once inside, radon can build up to dangerous levels, particularly in basements and lower levels with limited ventilation. Prolonged exposure to high levels of radon is a serious health risk, as it’s the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. When buying a home, it’s essential to understand how radon could affect the property and take the necessary steps to test and mitigate it.
Testing for Radon
Understanding radon levels is a must when buying a home. Testing for radon is straightforward and involves placing a test kit in the lowest livable area of the house for a specified period. Once the test is complete, the results will tell you if radon levels are within a safe range or if action is needed.
Removing Radon
If high levels are detected, don’t panic—effective mitigation systems can significantly reduce radon levels. The cost of installing a radon mitigation system typically ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the complexity of the situation. While this might seem like an added expense, it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your new home is safe from this invisible threat.
How to Address Radon When Buying a Home
When buying a home, it’s wise to address radon early in the process. Start by negotiating radon testing into the purchase agreement—this ensures you know the radon levels before finalizing the deal. If the test reveals elevated levels, you have options. You can request that the seller install a mitigation system before you move in or negotiate the cost of installation into the sale price. Taking these steps protects your investment and ensures your new home is a safe environment for you and your family from day one.
Finding the Right Help
When it comes to dealing with radon in your potential new home, finding a qualified professional is key. Look for experts certified by the Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program (C-NRPP), as they have the training and expertise to accurately test and install effective mitigation systems.
Additionally, there are several valuable resources available to help you navigate radon concerns. Health Canada provides detailed guidelines on radon levels and testing procedures, and the Canadian Lung Association offers insights into the health risks associated with radon exposure. Ensuring you have the right support and information can make all the difference in protecting your new home from radon.
Trust Groundworks to Protect You From Radon
In conclusion, radon is a serious health hazard that can pose significant risks if not addressed. By knowing the radon levels before moving into your new home, you’re taking a proactive step to ensure a safe living environment for you and your family. Addressing radon early on not only protects your health but also helps you avoid potentially costly issues down the line.
Groundworks is here to help you navigate this process with ease. Our team of experts can assist with effective mitigation solutions, giving you peace of mind as you settle into your new home. Don’t let radon be an invisible threat—take action and ensure your home is radon-free. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate on your radon mitigation system.
Noticing problem signs in your crawl space?
Book your appointment today!
FAQs
It’s recommended to have a professional install the system to ensure it meets EPA guidelines and is effective in reducing radon levels.
Properly designed and installed radon mitigation systems can reduce radon levels by up to 99%.
The EPA recommends taking action to mitigate radon in homes with radon levels at or above 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) of air.
