Radon is a radioactive element  that is part of the radioactive decay chain of naturally occurring uranium in soil. Radon is invisible, odorless and cannot be tasted. Unlike carbon monoxide and many other home pollutants, radon's adverse health effect, lung cancer, is usually not produced immediately. Thus you may be exposed to radon for many years without ever suspecting its presence in your home.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency action level for radon is 4.0 picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L). The risk of developing lung cancer at 4.0 pCi/L is estimated at about 2 lung cancer deaths per 1000 persons. That is why USEPA and Illinois Department of Nuclear Safety /IDNS/ recommend reducing you radon level if the concentration is 4.0 pCi/L or more.

You Should Test for Radon

While scientists can estimate the approximate lung cancer deaths per 1000 people, no single individual's risk can be estimated. Testing is relatively inexpensive, easy and is the only way to know whether you are at risk. Radon reduction techniques are used to stop radon entry and reduce indoor radon concentrations. The cost is between $800 to $2,500 for installation. 

If you are selling a home EPA recommends that you test your home before putting it on the market and, if necessary, lower the radon level. Save the test results and all information you have about steps that were taken to fix any problems. This could be a positive selling point.

If you are buying a home EPA recommends that you obtain the indoor radon level in a home you are considering buying. Ask the seller for radon test results.

Radon testing in real estate transactions, which involve multiple parties and financial interests, is unique and specific testing protocols are required.

Have trained professional perform your test. Eblis Partners follow the real estate protocol also.