Introduction to Radon
Radon is a gas that comes from uranium or radioactive decay. It is not detectable by smell, taste, or sight. The Kansas City region is among the highest levels in the country.
The primary concern with radon is its health implications. Some studies suggest that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer–estimated between 3-14% of all cases. This has caused the EPA to recommend testing and mitigation of Radon when the test results review a level that is 4.0 picocuries per liter of air or above.
Testing is simple but requires planning. Our HPI team can help you schedule this and give you potential partners to work with if you discover mitigation is necessary.
Testing for Radon
A test that is below 4.0 pCi/L does not require mitigation but continued annual testing. When the result is 4.0 pCi/L or above then mitigation is recommended. The standard protocol is to continue testing every two years to ensure the system continues to be adequate.
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It is important to allow sufficient time for testing. If you are in a time-sensitive situation (i.e. real estate inspection period) then it is important to consider this in your terms of the offer. The reason this takes a while is you need to schedule, the radon technician needs to acquire access and get to the property, and 48 hours for testing. We generally recommend an allowance of at least 4 business days to ensure meeting your time needs.
What to do with a high radon test?
If a property tests high then mitigation is recommended by the EPA. To mitigate ask your agent for a recommendation. If your agent does not have one feel free to reach out to our office and we will give you some options.
A licensed contractor would then identify where to install the system and where it would exit the property. It is important to be aware of the aesthetic of the interior and the proximity to windows and vents on the exterior.
For testing throughout Kanas City metro and many areas beyond, please call our office at 913-390-3376. We will be happy to help you meet your radon testing needs as well as your home inspection, sewer scope, and termite inspection needs.
To schedule your home inspection and radon inspections go to HPI’s scheduling page. To see what our inspection reports look like visit our Sample Reports page. We look forward to helping you understand your home and needs in the days ahead.
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