Radon Gas

Take Precautions – Request a Radon Test

As a Virginia townhome buyer, it is important you take precautions by requesting a test for harmful chemicals lurking in the crawlspace or beneath the soil of a Virginia townhome for sale. When you request your townhome inspection, be sure to ask the inspector if he/she will test for radon.

Radon – What Is It?  

Radon is an odorless, radioactive gas that is produced by the natural decay of uranium in the soil. It penetrates a home through cracks and holes in the foundation. Although it is present in outside air, it can build to unsafe levels when it remains trapped inside a home. The highest level of radon will be found in a buried basement or crawl space. The amount of radon can vary widely--from one area of the country to another and between houses sitting next to each other.

It is believed that prolonged exposure to high doses of radon can be carcinogenic, and it appears that smokers are at greater risk than non-smokers.

Testing is Easy!

Testing for radon is easy and relatively inexpensive. Home inspectors can test for the presence of radon, or you can purchase a test kit from your local hardware store and perform the test yourself.

How To Effectively Remove Radon

If a radon problem exists, it can be reduced to acceptable levels. Mitigation usually involves installing a special gravity fan that draws radon gas from under the foundation and releases it outdoors. It is recommended all cracks and joints in the foundation be sealed with a caulking compound specifically designed for this purpose.

Add a Home Inspection/Radon Clause

Your offer to purchase contract should include a clause to allow for a radon test and a contingency allowing an acceptable agreement between buyer and seller for mitigation, should it become necessary.

If you have any questions regarding any type of home inspection, please contact us and we will provide a professional response.