The U.S. Department of Environmental Protection ("EPA") has declared January
as National Radon Action Month. This has been a tradition with the EPA for a least several years. Radon gas is tasteless, odorless, invisible, and cause lung cancer. Radon is caused by a breakdown of uranium in the rock, soil and water under the foundation of a house.
An article in RIS Media's Real Estate Magazine indicates that there are various standards for determining a safe level of radon gas, but all experts agree that the gas is deadly. Before buying a home a buyer should have a radon test done. However, the experts suggest that you not stop there. After you purchase a home, it is a wise idea to have the home tested at least once every two years to determine the presence of radon. Radon gas can build up a period of time and can be inhaled by the occupants without their knowledge, just like carbon monoxide. In addition, radon can get into ground water and contaminate the home's water supply.
The EPA website has a special section devoted to radon. The link to the Radon Home page is HERE. There are a number of links on the various pages of the EPA radon website that will lead you to a number of topics, including locating inspectors and locating mitigation companies. If you take the time to explore the various links on the Radon Home page and its subpages you will find a wealth of information.
Testing for radon gas should not stop with the closing of the purchase and sale of a home. Testing for radon needs to be an ongoing process. Have you had your home tested lately?
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