Whether you're in the process of buying or selling a home, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding the perfect property or securing the best deal to the extent that crucial safety measures like radon testing, might be overlooked. However, this essential step can protect your investment, your health, and your peace of mind. Here's what you need to know about the role of radon testing in real estate transactions.

The Hidden Dangers of Radon Gas

Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally in the soil and can seep into homes through cracks in the foundation, walls, and other openings. It is odorless, tasteless, and invisible, making it impossible to detect without proper testing. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon can lead to serious health risks, including lung cancer. This makes radon testing a vital component of the home buying or selling process, as it ensures the safety of the property for its future occupants.

Radon Testing for Buyers

As a home buyer, you'll want to make sure that the property you're considering is safe and free from high levels of radon gas. It's a good idea to include a radon testing contingency in your purchase agreement, allowing you to negotiate with the seller to either mitigate the radon levels or adjust the sale price accordingly if elevated levels are found. If you're purchasing a newly built home, inquire about any radon-resistant construction techniques used in the building process, as these can help to minimize potential radon exposure.

Radon Testing for Sellers

If you're selling your home, conducting a radon test before listing the property can be a smart move. By addressing any radon issues upfront, you can provide potential buyers with peace of mind and avoid potential delays or complications during the sale process. In some cases, having a recent radon test with favorable results can even be a selling point, making your home more attractive to prospective buyers.

Choosing the Right Radon Testing Method

There are two primary methods of radon testing: short-term and long-term tests. Short-term tests typically last a couple of days and can provide a quick snapshot of radon levels in the home. Long-term tests, on the other hand, measure radon levels over a period of several months and provide a more accurate representation of the average radon concentration. In most real estate transactions, short-term tests are used due to their faster turnaround time. However, if elevated levels are found, a long-term test or additional short-term tests may be recommended to confirm the results.

For more information on home radon level tests, contact a professional near you.