I strongly advise all home buyers to have their prospective homes tested for radon gas. Radon is a naturally occurring gas that originates from uranium deposits in the ground. Radon gas exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, and it can seep into homes through cracks and holes in the foundation, walls, and floors. Here are some of the key reasons why you should have your home tested for radon gas:

1. Radon is a serious health risk: Radon is a radioactive gas that can cause serious health problems when it is breathed in over time. Exposure to high radon levels can increase your risk of developing lung cancer. As the second leading cause of lung cancer, radon is estimated to be responsible for over 21,000 deaths yearly in the United States.
2. Radon is common: Radon is present in all parts of the United States and can be found in both new and old homes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that one in every 15 homes in the United States has elevated radon levels.
3. Radon is odorless and invisible: Unlike other types of indoor air pollution, radon is odorless and invisible, which means that you cannot detect it without the use of specialized testing equipment.
4. Testing is easy and affordable: Testing for radon is a simple and inexpensive process that can be done by many professional home inspectors. The cost of a radon test is minimal compared to the potential health risks associated with high radon levels.
5. High radon levels can be fixed: If your home has elevated radon levels, there are proven methods for reducing radon levels. A professional radon mitigation system can be installed in your home to reduce radon levels to a safe level effectively. When detected prior to the purchase of a home, the installation cost can be negotiated with the seller.

In summary, testing your home for radon is an important step in ensuring that your home is safe and healthy for you and your family. Radon is a serious health risk that can be easily and affordably tested for, and high levels can be mitigated with proven methods. As a home inspector, I highly recommend that all home buyers have their prospective homes tested for radon gas.

More information can be found here:

EPAs publication Home Buyer’s and Seller’s Guide To Radon

Ohio Dept of Health About Radon

A sample report of mine can be found here