The Importance of Radon Testing: Part Two
What if Elevated Radon Levels are Found?
If elevated radon testing levels are found in a home you are considering purchasing, the EPA recommends that you request that the seller mitigate (reduce) them. Experts agree that the minimum levels of radon in a home are about 1.2 pCi/L. You probably won’t be able to get them that low, but you definitely want them to be under 4 pCi/L.
If mitigation repairs are necessary, they can be done in addition to other repairs that you ask the seller to make as part of the deal. There are companies that specialize in radon mitigation. How much it costs to reduce radon levels in the home depends on how it was built. Most are about the same cost as other common home repairs.
How Often Should You Test?
If the radon levels in your new home are fine, or steps have been taken to reduce them, it is still important to have them tested periodically. A number of factors can change the radon levels in your home. They can change seasonally, so some experts recommend testing seasonally. Our certified inspectors can recommend how often you should test based on their initial findings and any follow-up testing.
Structural changes in the home can increase radon levels. Therefore, the EPA recommends testing before you do any construction. That way, if there is a problem, you can use radon-resistant construction techniques. If you did not test before the construction, you should do it afterwards. You should also have the levels tested if you plan to add another bedroom to the first level. That is because radon enters a structure on the lower levels. Our Atlanta radon testing experts can determine the levels throughout your home.
Why Have our Certified Inspectors Test for Radon?
There are low-cost do-it-yourself radon test kits available online and in hardware stores. However, our Atlanta home inspectors are certified with the highest industry standard certifications, including the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), the International Code Council (ICC), and the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP). Therefore, when you use Champia to inspect your home for radon, you can be assured that the measurements they take are accurate.
If you are purchasing a new home, you should definitely have the testing done by certified professionals so that the results are accepted by both sides in the deal. If Champia conducts your Atlanta home inspection, we can bundle the radon testing service, as well as carbon dioxide testing and termite and mold inspections. This will give you peace of mind that your new home is safe and save you money on repairs in the long run. To find out more about our Atlanta radon testing services, go to https://champia.com/residential/.
