If you are in the market for a new home and discover that a property has tested high for radon you might be wondering if you should walk away from the deal. The answer is not always clear cut
At Mitigation Quote we help homeowners and buyers connect with licensed radon mitigation experts across the country including Utah where radon levels are among the highest in the nation. In this blog we will explain what radon is what it means for homebuyers and why high radon should not always be a deal breaker
What Is Radon and Why Is It a Concern
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil rock and water. It enters homes through cracks in foundations floor joints and crawl spaces
Long term exposure to high levels of radon has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer. In fact the EPA identifies radon as the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States after smoking
However the presence of radon in a home does not mean the home is unsafe or uninhabitable. It simply means that radon mitigation may be needed
Should You Avoid Buying a Home With Radon
In most cases no. A home with high radon levels can still be a good purchase provided you take the proper steps to address the issue. Radon mitigation is a proven and effective process that can reduce radon to safe levels
Homes with radon are common in many parts of the country including Utah Colorado and Idaho. Many buyers move forward with the purchase after negotiating radon remediation as part of the closing process
What You Can Do as a Buyer
If a home tests high for radon here are steps you can take to protect your health and your investment
- Request a Certified Radon Test
Confirm the radon levels using a professional inspection. The EPA action level is 4 picocuries per liter or higher - Negotiate Mitigation With the Seller
Ask the seller to install a radon mitigation system or provide a credit for the work. This is a common request and often part of closing negotiations - Hire a Licensed Radon Mitigation Contractor
If you choose to take on the work yourself be sure to use a certified radon mitigation professional. Systems typically cost between 800 and 2000 dollars and are effective long term - Re-Test After Installation
Once the system is installed re-test the property to confirm that radon levels have been reduced
Are There Long Term Risks
When properly mitigated a home with a history of radon can be just as safe as one without. In fact many radon systems improve indoor air quality and increase resale value by demonstrating that the issue has been addressed professionally
Legal Disclaimer
This blog post is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal health or real estate advice. Always consult with a certified radon mitigation specialist a licensed home inspector or a real estate attorney regarding your specific situation. Mitigation Quote is a platform that connects consumers with qualified service providers and does not guarantee or warrant the performance of any individual contractor
Bottom Line
Do not automatically rule out a home with radon. With professional mitigation and proper testing it is possible to make the home safe and healthy to live in. Mitigation Quote is here to help you find trusted local experts who can assess and resolve radon concerns with confidence