When to Test for Radon: A Must-Know Guide for Real Estate Agents

As a real estate agent, ensuring the safety and value of the properties you handle is a top priority. One critical aspect of property safety that often goes unnoticed is radon testing. Radon is an invisible, odorless gas that can pose serious health risks if left unchecked. But when exactly should you test for radon? Here’s what you need to know.

During Every Real Estate Transaction

Radon testing is essential during real estate transactions. Whether you’re helping clients buy or sell, making radon testing a standard part of the process is crucial. Testing for radon protects your clients from potential health risks and ensures that the property complies with safety regulations. By doing so, you add value to the transaction, showcasing your commitment to their well-being.

Why Testing Is Essential

Radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for thousands of deaths each year. Given these serious health risks, radon testing isn't just a formality—it's a vital step in protecting your clients and safeguarding their investment. Testing during real estate transactions can also prevent future liabilities, ensuring that the property is safe and sound for its new occupants.

If Levels Are Low, Continue Testing Every Four Years

If radon levels in a property are found to be low, it's important to continue testing every four years. Radon levels can change due to various environmental factors, so periodic testing is necessary to ensure ongoing safety. This practice not only provides peace of mind but also demonstrates your thoroughness and attention to detail as a real estate professional.

Monitoring and Maintaining Low Radon Levels

Maintaining low radon levels requires regular monitoring. Encourage property owners to use reliable radon testing kits or hire professional services to check the levels periodically. Regular monitoring helps ensure that radon levels remain within safe limits, protecting the occupants and maintaining the property’s value.

If Levels Are High, Get Mitigation and Test Every Two Years

If high radon levels are detected, immediate mitigation is crucial. Radon mitigation systems reduce radon levels, making the property safe again. However, the job isn’t over once the system is installed. Testing should be conducted every two years to ensure that the mitigation system continues to work effectively. This step is essential for long-term safety and compliance with health standards.

Understanding Radon Mitigation

Radon mitigation involves various methods, such as soil suction, sealing cracks in the foundation, and improving ventilation. Choosing a reputable mitigation service is key to ensuring the effectiveness of these measures. As a real estate agent, advising your clients on the best mitigation options and services reflects your expertise and commitment to their safety.

Post-Mitigation Testing

After mitigation, follow-up testing is necessary to confirm that radon levels have been successfully reduced. This testing should be done shortly after the mitigation system is installed and then at regular intervals, such as every two years. These best practices help ensure that the system remains effective, and that the property stays safe for its occupants.

Ensuring Long-Term Effectiveness

Continuous testing is vital to confirm the long-term effectiveness of radon mitigation systems. Changes in the environment, home renovations, or even natural settling of the building can affect radon levels. By regularly testing, you can ensure that the mitigation system continues to protect the occupants and maintain the property’s safety.

During Major Renovations

Major renovations can significantly impact radon levels in a property. Structural changes, modifications to the HVAC system, or finishing a basement can alter how radon enters and accumulates in the building. Conducting radon testing both before and after such renovations is essential to manage any potential risks.

Renovations That Impact Radon Levels

Specific types of renovations are more likely to affect radon levels, such as basement finishing, changes to ventilation systems, or significant structural modifications. As a real estate agent, advising your clients to test for radon during these projects demonstrates your comprehensive understanding of property safety and your commitment to their well-being.

Regular radon testing is an essential part of ensuring property safety, particularly during real estate transactions. By making radon testing a standard practice, you protect your clients, enhance property value, and solidify your reputation as a responsible and knowledgeable real estate agent.
Take proactive steps to ensure the safety of the properties you manage by incorporating radon testing into your standard procedures. For more information or assistance, consider partnering with a professional radon testing service. Together, you can provide peace of mind and safety for your clients, ensuring their homes are safe and sound.