If you live in Colorado, chances are that “yes” is the answer. Data from the Colorado Department of Health and Environment indicates that about 50% of homes in Colorado have high radon levels. If you are buying a home or have already been living in your home for years, testing for radon could be a life-saving decision. What is radon? It comes from the natural radioactive breakdown of uranium in rock, soil, and water. The bad thing about radon is that it can seep from the ground under your home and in high concentrations and prolonged exposure, cause lung cancer. The risk for high concentration levels is increased in homes with split levels and basements that do not have adequate ventilation. The United States Surgeon General, the American Lung Association, and the Environmental Protection Agency recommend that people avoid long-term radon exposure at or above 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter of air).
Is radon testing required? Like your typical home inspection, it is NOT required. However, it is recommended. There are some things to consider when buying a home. If the seller knows of the existence of any radon, they should disclose through the “Seller’s Property Disclosure Form”. If radon is tested (by a certified radon measurement contractor) and levels are high, the buyer may request the seller to install a radon mitigation system. The test itself will run between $100 – $150. The mitigation system is a negotiated item, meaning the seller DOES NOT have to install the system. These costs anywhere from $800-$1600 and usually carry a life-time warranty.
Take advantage of additional information and even a FREE test kit (limited supply):
- Radon in Colorado Real Estate Transactions
- Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
www.coloradoradon.info - United States Environmental Protection Agency
www.epa.gov/radon - Free Test Kit
Looking to buy or sell your home. You can contact me by email or call 720-253-8513.
