Radon is Real
Watch this video to learn how alpha particles can be seen in a cloud chamber!
(Note: Elevated radon levels are found in any home, regardless of foundation, i.e. slab, basement and crawl space)
Testing determines a home's radon level
Since you can't see, smell or taste radon, testing is the only way to find out if you have a radon problem. A neighbor’s test result or results-based maps cannot determine the level in any home. Homeowners can measure radon concentrations in their homes themselves using inexpensive and easy to use test kits. The video link below will provide a short lesson on the use of short-term radon test kits.
Know the indoor radon level in the home you consider buying
Listing or buying? Get educated and test and understand mitigation solutions if testing calls for it. For more information about radon in real estate transactions, visit Radon information for the real estate professional.
While Nevada currently has no laws that address radon, the Environmental Law Institute’s Database of State Indoor Air Quality Laws lists at least 40 states that do. In Nevada, the Residential Disclosure Guide, Seller’s Real Property Disclosure Form, HUD and FHA forms all include radon gas as an environmental and health hazard. Many informed buyers and relocation companies have homes tested for radon before a home purchase, similar to inspecting a home for termites and building defects. If elevated radon levels are found, the buyer and seller should discuss the timing and cost of radon reduction. Current mitigation technology successfully reduces radon concentrations inside homes, lowering the health risk of lung cancer caused by radon. Informed sellers test their homes prior to listing, and if elevated radon levels are found, the seller should take steps to reduce the radon levels before placing the house on the market.
When testing for a real estate transaction, it is recommended that a qualified (certified) tester be used. A certified, professional radon tester may charge $100 to $300 for the test, but results are available shortly after 48 hours. A certified tester knows the testing protocols, such as where to do the test, how to test and how long to test. A certified tester is a third party not involved in the sale or purchase of the home. For a list of approved, certified radon testing professionals, click on the link below. For more information about radon in real estate transactions, visit Radon information for the real estate professional.
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This program page was supported by the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health through Grant Number K1-96963520-0 from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not represent the official views of the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health nor the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.