You may have heard of Radon, but do you know what it is? Do you have to worry about it when buying a home? Does it matter if the home is new or old? How can you test or mitigate for it? Where can you find out more? Read on for more details…
What is Radon?
Radon is a cancer-causing radioactive gas. You cannot see, smell or taste radon, but it may be a problem in your home. The Surgeon General has warned that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States today. If you smoke and your home has high radon levels, you’re at high risk for developing lung cancer. Some scientific studies of radon exposure indicate that children may be more sensitive to radon. This may be due to their higher respiration rate and their rapidly dividing cells, which may be more vulnerable to radiation damage.
radon.com
Do I have to test for Radon for a real esate transaction?
Currently, radon testing is not required for real estate transactions under Oregon law. It is still a good idea to test for radon for the health of the people who live there.
Radon measurement (testing) companies are often hired when the results are needed quickly (like in the 10-day inspection period of a home sale). See list radon Measurement Companies.
If your radon concern is related to a real estate transaction, you may be interested in EPA’s Home Buyer’s and Seller’s Guide to Radon (pdf).
Oregon Health Authority
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