Found Radon During a Home Inspection? Don’t Panic—Do This Instead

1. Found Radon During a Home Inspection? Found Radon During a Home Inspection? Don’t Panic Don’t Panic— —Do This Instead Do This Instead Buying a home is a big step—and discovering radon during the inspection process can feel like a serious roadblock. But don’t worry! Radon is a common issue, and the good news is, it’s completely manageable. Here’s what you need to know and what steps to take next. What Is Radon, and Why Does It Matter? Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It’s colorless, odorless, and tasteless—but prolonged exposure can increase the risk of lung cancer. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends taking action if radon levels are 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher.

2. Step 1: Don’t Panic—Radon Is Common About 1 in 15 U.S. homes has elevated radon levels. It’s not a deal-breaker— it just means you’ll need to take some extra steps to protect yourself and your family. Most radon issues can be fixed easily and affordably. Step 2: Get a Confirmatory Test If the initial home inspection shows high radon levels: •Request a second, follow-up test to confirm the results. •Make sure it’s a short-term test (2–7 days) or a long-term test (over 90 days) depending on your timeline. •Use a certified radon measurement professional for accuracy. Step 3: Negotiate Repairs with the Seller You can: •Request the seller to pay for or install a radon mitigation system before closing. •Negotiate the cost into the purchase price so you can handle the mitigation yourself post-sale. This is a common part of real estate transactions, and most sellers are cooperative once the issue is identified. Step 4: Install a Radon Mitigation System A professional radon mitigation system typically includes: •A vent pipe system and a fan that pulls radon from beneath the house and vents it outside. •Sealing cracks in floors and foundations to reduce radon entry.

3. Average cost: $800–$1,500 Bonus: It can also improve indoor air quality by reducing moisture and other soil gases. Step 5: Retest After Installation Once the system is in place: •Retest the radon levels to make sure the system is working effectively. •Schedule periodic retesting every two years, or after major renovations. Final Thoughts: Knowledge Is Power Finding radon during a home inspection doesn’t have to derail your dream of homeownership. With the right steps and a proactive mindset, you can resolve the issue and move forward with confidence. Need Help? If you're unsure where to start, contact a licensed radon professional or home inspector in your area. A great place to begin is Indianapolis Radon Mitigation, which offers certified radon services. Always choose contractors certified by NRPP (National Radon Proficiency Program) or NRSB (National Radon Safety Board).