What to know about radon when buying a home in Erie County, NY

Getting ready to purchase a home in Erie County, New York?  Wondering if a Radon test is necessary?  If you were MY client, the only answer would be yes. 

If you're not familiar with Radon and how it can effect you and your family, I highly suggest taking the time and reviewing EPAs, A Citizen's Guide to Radon.  Studies have shown a clear link between breathing high concentrations of radon and cancer. The United States Environmental Protection Agency determined that radon is the second most frequent cause of lung cancer, after cigarette smoking, causing 21,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the United States . About 2,900 of these deaths occur among people who have never smoked. While radon is the second most frequent cause of lung cancer, it is the number one cause among non-smokers, according to EPA estimates.

The average cost per test using one of my recommended Licensed Home Inspectors in Erie County, ranges from $125-$175.  Basically the inspector with install the test kit in the basement for 48 hours.  If the average radon level is over 4.0 pCi, a mitigation system is required.  This is certainly a safety issue and almost always falls on the seller as far as who's responsibility it will be to remediate the problem.  I have had estimates and repairs done for anywhere between $1200 and $2500. If the basement needs excessive foundation crack repairs or crawl space moisture barriers, the cost could be higher. 

If you are buying a property in Erie County and it already has a radon mitigation system, I highly recommend you spend the money and have the levels re-tested.  How do you know if the system is actually working properly?

And lastly, I can't tell you how many times a Seller has asked me the infamous question..."If I open the basement windows won't the level go down?"  This question always makes me smile.  The idea is wrong on so many levels but most importantly, opening the windows will often RAISE the level.  Do the right thing and leave the windows and doors closed. 

When buying a home in Erie County make sure to review the Erie County Radon Map HERE

Thanks again for visiting my blog!   Make sure to check out my website next time you are buying or selling in Erie County, NY or call me today @ 716-536-1562.

Have a great day!

Kelly