What to Expect from the Radon Inspection

Here’s what you need to know if you have scheduled a radon testing inspection and what to expect during the process.

What is Radon?

Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that forms from the natural decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It can seep into homes through cracks in floors, walls, and foundations. Prolonged exposure to high levels of radon is a leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, making it essential to test for and mitigate radon in homes.

Cost of a Radon Test

Generally, a Radon Test ranges anywhere from $185 - $295 in the State of Tennessee.

Why People Test for Radon

While debated, radon exposure is thought to be the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Since radon is undetectable by human senses, the only way to know if your home has high radon levels is to test for it.

What to Expect During a Radon Test

The standard Radon testing method for real estate transactions is a machine the size of a shoebox on a stand that is left in the Seller's home for 48 hours.

Setting Up the Test

The radon test device is typically placed in the lowest level of the home that is regularly used like a finished basement or the living room on the first floor. It should be in a location where it won’t be disturbed, away from drafts, high humidity, and exterior walls.

During the Test

For accurate results, maintain “closed-house conditions” for at least 12 hours before and during the test. This means keeping all windows and doors closed, except for normal entry and exit. It's also important to ensure that the test device is not moved or tampered with during the testing period.

After the Test

After the test period is complete, the device will be sent to a laboratory for analysis if it’s a passive device like a charcoal canister or alpha-track detector. Electronic monitors can provide immediate results.

Understanding the Results

Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L). The EPA recommends taking action if radon levels are 4 pCi/L or higher. If the home your are buying home tests higher for radon, a professional radon mitigation contractor can install a radon reduction system for $1,000 - $1,500. Your Agent will guide you through.

Follow-Up Testing

After mitigation, it can be advisable to perform a follow-up test to ensure the system is working properly and that the radon levels are below 4 pCi/L.