When you’re looking at properties to buy, there are so many things that you will need to inspect beyond paint, flooring and visible structural issues. A routine visual inspection won’t detect some of the most important concerns.
One of them is radon. This radioactive gas which occurs naturally can penetrate into homes through the soil and build up in the interior without leaving a noticeable odor or color. As a part of the home inspection process, buyers will have important information regarding an environmental issue that hasn’t been known to affect the home until now, and will be able to consider the issue more thoroughly before they purchase the property.
What Is Radium and Why Is It Important
Radon is a radioactive gas that is formed naturally as some soil and rock decay. Homeowners may not be able to detect high levels just by smelling or looking around the house. Radon may enter through cracks and openings in the foundation, floors, wall, and areas where the building is in contact with the ground.
High radon exposure over a period of time can lead to lung cancer. This is an important factor to consider when purchasing a home or selling one out.
Why Visual Inspections aren’t Enough
A standard home inspection is primarily concerned with what can be seen and how the key systems operate. Inspectors can discover cracks in the foundation, drainage problems, ventilation problems, and more that could impact the property.
These observations do not, however, indicate whether or not indoor radon concentrations are high. This is where radon testing helps. Even a well-maintained home can have high radon levels. Testing is used to measure the actual concentration in the indoor environment, not on visible indicators.
When to Test for Radon
Inspection is especially valuable when buying a house as it gives them information before they make the purchase. It also can be suitable for individuals who already have homes and do not and have not recently taken a test.
The indoor radon levels may be affected by changes to the foundation or home renovations, as well as other building conditions. Testing conditions and methods may vary, and homeowners should consult qualified professionals that know the proper testing procedures.
How Radon is Tested
The testing procedure varies with the testing method. A professional can install a special device in a suitable location in the house for a specific time. The device is used to measure radon concentrations and displays results which can be compared to applicable guidelines.
Homeowners should not alter testing equipment or testing conditions which may influence the accuracy of the measurement. Inquire from the inspector or testing professional how it works, how long testing will take, and when to expect results.
Make Testing Part of Your Home-Buying Plan
If radon testing is added to the inspection process, it can give the inspector valuable information about the indoor air quality that cannot otherwise be determined by visual inspection. Purchasers should inquire about testing prior to the inspection and what the testing entails.
You should also note the outcomes and have this available for future reference. When the property is sold, future owners will be able to utilize that information for planning their renovation, maintenance or testing.
