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Home Buyer's and Seller's
Guide to Radon
United States Environmental Protection Agency
402-R-93-003
March 1993
Air and Radiation 6604J
For sale by the U.S. Government Printing Office
Superintendent of Documents, Mail Stop:
SSOP, Washington, DC 20402-9328
EPA Recommends:
If you are planning on buying a home or selling your home, have it tested for radon.
For new homes, ask if radon resistant construction features have been used.
Fix the home if the radon level is 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. Radon
levels less than 4 pCi/L still pose a risk, and in many cases may be reduced. Take
steps to prevent device interference when conducting a radon test.
Radon is estimated to cause thousands of cancer deaths in the U.S. each year.
CONTENTS
EPA has developed this guide to help home buyers and sellers address eight key questions
about radon:
Why Do You Need to Test for Radon?
If You Are Selling a Home, What Should You Do?
If You Are Buying a Home, What Should You Do?
If You Are Buying a Newly-Built Home, What Should You Do?
How Can You Get Reliable Radon Test Results?
Types of Radon Devices
Length of Time to Test
If You Conduct A Short-Term Test
Using Testing Devices Properly (If You Do The Test Yourself)
EPA's Testing Checklist
Getting Reliable Test Results (If You Hire a Professional Radon Tester)
Interpreting Radon Test Results
What Should You Do If You Find a High Radon Level?
Radon Myths/Facts
Where Can You Get More Information about Radon?
OVERVIEW
This guide is for anyone buying or selling a home who wants to learn about radon.
Radon is a cancer-causing, radioactive gas.
You cannot see radon. And you cannot smell it or taste it. But it may be a problem in your
home. That is because when you breathe air containing radon, you increase your risk of
getting lung cancer. In fact, the Surgeon General has warned that radon is the second
leading cause of lung cancer in the United States today. If you smoke and your home has
high ration levels, your risk of lung cancer is especially high.
You should test for radon. Testing is the only way to find out your home's radon levels.
EPA and the Surgeon General recommend testing all homes below the third floor for
radon.
You can fix a radon problem. If you find that you have high radon levels, there are ways
to fix a radon problem. Even very high levels can be reduced to acceptable levels.
If you are selling a Home... EPA recommends that you test your home before putting it on
the market and, if necessary, lower your radon levels. Save the test results and all
information you have about steps that were taken to fix any problems. This could be a
positive selling point.
If you are buying a Home... EPA recommends that you obtain the indoor radon level in a
home you are considering buying. Ask the seller for radon test results. If the home has a
radon reduction system, ask the seller for information about the system.
If the home has not yet been tested, this Guide makes recommendations about how to test
now.
The radon testing guidelines in the "Home Buyer's and Seller's Guide to Radon"
have been developed specifically to deal with the time sensitive nature of home purchases
and sales and the potential for radon device interference.
The guidelines in the "Home Buyer's Guide" are somewhat different from the
guidelines in other EPA publications which provide radon testing and reduction information
for non-real estate situations. The "Home Buyer's Guide" recommends three
short-term testing options when long-term testing is not possible. The "Home Buyer's
Guide" also recommends testing a home in the lowest level of the home which is
currently suitable for occupancy. This is because a buyer may choose to live in a lower
area of the home than that used by the seller.
Why Do You Need To Test For Radon?
Radon Has Been Found In Homes All Over the U.S.
Radon is a radioactive gas that has been found in homes all over the U.S. It comes from
the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water and gets into the air you
breathe. Radon typically moves up through the ground to the air above and into your home
through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Your home can trap radon
inside. Sometimes radon enters the home through well water.
Any home can have a radon problem. This means new and old homes, well-sealed and drafty
homes, and homes with or without basements. In fact, you and your family are most likely
to get your greatest radiation exposure at home. That is where you spend most of your
time.
Nearly 1 out of every 15 homes in the U.S. is estimated to have elevated radon levels.
Elevated levels of radon gas have been found in homes in your state. Contact your state
radon office for information about radon in your area.
EPA And The Surgeon General Recommend That You Test Your Home. Testing is the only way to
know if you and your family are at risk from radon. EPA and the Surgeon General recommend
testing all homes below the third floor for radon.
WHY YOU CANNOT ESTIMATE RADON LEVELS BASED ON STATE, LOCAL AND NEIGHBORHOOD RADON
MEASUREMENTS
Do not rely on radon test results taken in other homes in the neighborhood to estimate the
radon level in your home. Homes which are next to each other can have different indoor
radon levels. While radon problems may be more common in some areas in the local community
or state, any home may have a problem. Testing your home is
the only way to find out what your radon levels are.
If You Are Selling A Home, What Should You Do?
If your home has already been tested for radon...
If you are thinking of selling your home and you have already tested your home for radon,
provide your test
results to the buyer. Review the testing Checklist in this guide to make sure that the
test was done correctly.
No matter what kind of test you took, a potential buyer may ask for a new test especially
if:
you took a test and the Checklist items were not met;
you have renovated or altered your home since you tested;
the buyer plans to live in a lower level of the house than you do, such as a basement
which is suitable for occupancy but is not currently lived in; or your state requires
disclosure of radon information to buyers.
If the home has not yet been tested for radon...
Have a test taken as soon as possible. If you can, test your home before putting it on the
market because this may save time during real estate transactions. You should test in the
lowest level of the home which is suitable for occupancy and finished. This means testing
in the lowest level that you currently live in or a lower level not currently used, but
which a buyer could use for living space without renovations. The result of the radon test
is important information about your home's radon level that potential buyers may want to
know.
You can test your own home or hire an EPA listed or state certified radon tester. Call
your state radon office for a list of these professional radon testers. If you test your
own home, carefully follow the Checklist in this guide.
If You Are Buying A Home, What Should You Do?
If the home has already been tested for radon...
If you are thinking of buying a home, you may either decide to accept the test results
from the seller, ask the seller to do another test, or you may ask for a new test to be
conducted by an EPA listed or state certified radon tester.
If you decide to accept the seller's test, make sure that the seller (or whoever took the
test) followed the testing Checklist and that he or she can confirm that all the items
were followed. If you plan to use the seller's test, find out as soon as possible from the
seller:
the results of the previous test; and who conducted the previous test: the homeowner,
a radon professional, or some other person; and where in the home the previous test
was taken, especially if you may plan to live in a lower level of the home. For example,
the test may have been taken on the first floor; however, you may want to live in a
basement which is not currently lived in, but which is suitable for occupancy without
renovation. what, if any, structural changes or alterations have been made to the
house since the test was done. Such changes might affect radon levels.
If you decide that a new test is needed, you should discuss it with the seller as soon as
possible. If you decide to use an EPA qualified or state certified radon tester, contact
your state radon office (see listings) for a list of radon testing companies.
If the home has not yet been tested for radon...
Make sure that a radon test is done as soon as possible. You should consider including
provisions in the contract specifying who should conduct the test, what type of test to
do, when to do the test, and how the seller and the buyer will share the test results,
test costs and, if necessary, when radon reduction measures should be taken and who should
pay for them.
Make sure that the test is done in the lowest level of the home suitable for occupancy.
This means the lowest level that you are going to use as living space which is finished or
does not require renovations prior to use. A state or local radon official or an EPA
listed or state certified radon tester can help you make some of these decisions.
If you decide to finish or renovate an unfinished area of the home in the future, ration
tests should be taken before and after the area is finished. Radon reduction costs could
be incurred if high levels are found in that area. Generally, it is less expensive to
install a radon reduction system before or during renovations rather than
afterwards.
If You Are Buying A Newly-Built Home, What Should You Do?
New homes can be built with radon resistant features that minimize radon entry and allow
easier fixing of radon problems that could occur later. These features cost less if
installed during construction than if added to an existing home. In most new homes, use of
radon resistant features will keep radon levels to below 2 pCi/L.
Builders can incorporate radon resistant features into the homes they build. Some states,
counties and local jurisdictions may adopt radon resistant construction features in their
building codes, which builders must then follow. Radon resistant construction standards
can be applied depending on the radon potential in a particular area. Many builders
already use radon resistant building features.
New home buyers should ask if radon resistant construction techniques have been built into
the new home they are considering for purchase. Buyers should also ask whether information
about radon is available. For custom-built homes, the buyer should discuss radon resistant
features with the builder including the cost.
Occupants of newly constructed should have their homes tested for radon. A long-term test
will provide a reading that more representative of the home's average radon level.
However, short-term may be used determine if elevated radon levels exist.
How Can You Get Reliable Radon Test Results?
Even though you cannot see or smell radon, it is not hard to find out if you have a radon
problem in your home.
Types of Radon Devices
Since you cannot see or smell radon, special equipment is needed to detect it. You can buy
radon devices in retail stores when you want to test your own home, send away for radon
devices from laboratories that offer mail order services, or you can hire an EPA listed or
state certified radon tester who will test using radon devices that are appropriate for
the situation.
Preventing or Detecting Test Interference
There is a potential for test interference in real estate transactions. There are a number
of ways to prevent or detect test interference such as:
Print-out report which frequently records radon or decay product levels to detect unusual
swings; Motion detectors to determine whether the test device has been moved or
testing conditions have changed; Proximity detectors to reveal the presence of people in
the room which may correlate to possible changes
in radon levels during the test; Record of barometric pressure to identify weather
conditions which may have affected the test; Temperature record to help assess
whether doors and windows have been opened; and Taping windows shut to ensure closed
house conditions.
Home buyers and sellers should evaluate these and other features when selecting a radon
test alternative. Refer to the "Protocols for Radon and Radon Decay Measurements in
Homes" for information about radon testing devices and associated device interference
features.
Some of the most common radon testing devices are listed below. Because new testing
devices may be listed by EPA or your state, you may want to check with your state radon
office before you test to get the most up-to-date information.
Passive Devices
Passive radon testing devices do not need power to function. They include radon detectors
such as charcoal canisters, alpha-track detectors, and charcoal liquid scintillation
devices that are available in hardware stores, drug stores, other stores, and by mail, and
electret ion chamber detectors generally only available through laboratories. They are
exposed to the air in the home for a specified period of time and then sent to a
laboratory for analysis. Both short-term and long-term passive devices are generally
inexpensive. Some of these devices may have
features that offer more resistance to test interference or disturbance than other passive
devices. Professional radon testers may use any of these devices to measure the home's
radon level.
Active Devices
Active radon testing devices require power to function. Active radon detectors such as
continuous ration monitors and continuous working level monitors require operation by
trained testers. They work by continuously measuring and recording the amount of radon or
its decay products in the air of the home. Many of these devices provide a report of this
information which can reveal any unusual or abnormal swings in the radon level during the
test period. A professional tester can explain this report to you. In addition, some of
these devices are specifically designed to deter and detect test interference. Currently,
some of the technically advanced active devices offer the most extensive device
interference features. Although these tests may cost more, they may ensure a more reliable
result.
General Information for All Devices:
A state or local radon official can explain the differences between devices and recommend
the ones which are most appropriate for your needs and expected testing conditions. In
addition, EPA's Radon Measurement Protocols include technical information about the
differences between devices.
Make sure the radon device is listed by EPA's testing program or is state-certified. The
device may display the phrase "Meets EPA Requirements" or "EPA
listed." Your state radon office or a radon tester can tell you more about radon
testing devices.
Certain precautions should be followed to avoid interference during the test period. Refer
to the Checklist in this guide for more information about how to get a reliable test.
In some areas, companies may offer different types of radon service agreements. Some
agreements let you pay a one-time fee that covers both testing, and if needed, radon
reduction. Contact your state radon office to find out if these are available in your
state.
Radon Test Device Placement
The testing device(s) should be placed in the lowest level of the home suitable for
occupancy. This means testing in the lowest level currently lived in or a lower level not
currently used, such as a basement, which a buyer could use for living space without
renovations. The test should be in a room to be used regularly (like a living room,
playroom, den or bedroom) but not a kitchen, bathroom or laundry room.
WHETHER YOU TEST FOR RADON YOURSELF OR HIRE AN EPA LISTED OR STATE CERTIFIED TESTER, ALL
RADON TESTS SHOULD BE TAKEN FOR A MINIMUM OF 48 HOURS. A LONGER PERIOD OF TESTING TIME IS
REQUIRED FOR SOME DEVICES.
Length of Time to Test There Are Two General Ways To Test Your Home for Radon:
LONG-TERM TESTING:
Long-term tests remain in your home for more than 90 days. Alpha track, and electret ion
chamber detectors are commonly used for this type of testing. A long-term test will give
you a reading that is more likely to tell you your home's year-round average radon level
than a short-term test. If time permits (more than 90 days) long-term tests can be used to
confirm initial short-term results between 4 pCi/L and 10 pCi/L. When long-term test
results are 4 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home.
SHORT-TERM TESTING:
The quickest way to test is with short-term tests. Short-term tests remain in your home
from two days to 90 days, depending on the device. There are two groups of devices which
are more commonly used for short-term testing. The passive device group includes alpha
track detectors, charcoal canisters, charcoal liquid scintillation detectors, and electret
ion chambers. The active device group consists of different types of continuous monitors.
Because radon levels tend to vary from day to day and season to season, a short-term test
is less than a long-term test to tell you your
round average radon level. However, if need results quickly, short-term testing be used to
decide whether to fix the home.
If You Conduct a Short-Term Test...
If you are testing in a real estate transaction and you need results quickly, any of the
following three ways to conduct Short-Term Tests are acceptable for determining whether
the home should be fixed. Any real estate test for radon should include steps to prevent
or detect device interference.
SHORT-TERM TESTING OPTIONS WHAT TO DO NEXT
Passive:
Take an initial short-term test for Fix the home if the
at least 48 hours. After the first average of two tests
test has been completed, take a is 4 pCi/L or more.
follow-up short-term test for at
least 48 hours.
or
Take two short-term tests at the Fix the home if the
same time in the same location for average of two tests
at least 48 hours. is 4 pCi/L or more.
Active:
Test the home with a continuous Fix the home if the
monitor for at least 48 hours. average radon level
is 4 pCi/L or more.
WHEN CHOOSING A SHORT-TERM TESTING OPTION
There are trade-offs among the short-term test options. One test followed by another test
(sequential) would most likely give a better representation of the seasonal average. Two
tests taken at the same time (simultaneous) would improve the precision of the radon test.
Both active and passive devices may have features which help to prevent test interference.
Your state radon office can help you decide which option is the best for you.
Using Testing Devices Properly (If You Do the Test Yourself)
When you are taking a short-term test, close your windows and outside doors and keep them
closed as much as possible during the test, except for normal entry and exit. If you are
taking a short-term test lasting less than 4 days, be sure to close your windows and
outside doors at least 12 hours before beginning the test, too. You
should not conduct short-term tests lasting less than 4 days during severe storms or
periods of high winds.
Place the test device at least 20 inches above the floor in a location where it will not
be disturbed and where it will be away from drafts, high heat, high humidity, and exterior
walls. Leave the test kit in place for as long as the test instructions say. Once you have
finished the test, reseal the package and send it immediately to the lab specified on the
package for analysis. You should receive your test results within a few weeks. If you need
results quickly, you should find out how long results will take and, if necessary, request
expedited service.
EPA'S TESTING CHECKLIST
Follow this Checklist carefully so that you get the most accurate radon test results.
Radon testing is not a complicated process, but must be done properly. Otherwise, the test
results may not be accurate and more testing may have to be done. Disturbing or
interfering with the test device or closed-house conditions will invalidate the test
results.
The seller, or an EPA listed or state certified tester, should be able to confirm that all
the items in this Checklist have been followed. If the tester cannot confirm this, another
test should be taken.
Before the radon testing:
Notify occupants of the importance of proper testing conditions. Give occupants written
instructions or this document and explain the directions carefully.
If you conduct the test yourself, use a ration measurement device listed by EPA's Ration
Measurement Proficiency (RMP) Program or certified by your state and follow the
manufacturer's instructions that come with the device. If you use a testing
professional, only hire an EPA listed or state certified individual and ask to see his or
her photo identification. The contractor's identification number should be clearly visible
on the test report. The test should include method(s) to prevent or detect
interference with testing conditions or with the testing device itself.
Conduct the radon test for a minimum of 48 hours. Certain devices must be exposed for more
than the 48 hour minimum. Check to see if an active radon reduction system is in the
house. Before taking a short-term test lasting less than 4 days, make sure the fan, if
any, is operating at least 24 hours before the beginning of the test. EPA recommends
that short-term radon testing which lasts for no more than a week in length, be done under
closed-house conditions. Closed-house conditions means keeping all windows closed, keeping
doors closed except for normal entry and exit, and not operating fans or other machines
which bring in air from outside. Note that fans that are part of a radon reduction system
or small exhaust fans operating for
only short periods of time may run during the test. When doing short-term testing
lasting less than 4 days, it is important to maintain closed-house conditions for at least
12 hours before the beginning of the test and for the entire test period. Do not operate
fans or other machines which bring in air from the outside.
During the radon test:
Maintain closed-house conditions during the entire time of a short-term test, especially
for tests shorter than one week in length. Operate the home's heating and cooling
systems normally during the test. For tests lasting less than one
week, only operate air conditioning units which recirculate interior air.
Do not disturb the test device at any time during thetest.
If a radon reduction system is in place, make sure the system is working properly and will
be in operation during the entire radon test.
After a radon test:
If a high radon level is found, fix the home. Pages 21 to 23 of this guide recommend the
next steps you should take, such as contacting a qualified radon reduction contractor to
lower the home's radon level. Be sure that you or the professional radon tester can
demonstrate or provide information to ensure that the testing conditions were not violated
during the testing period.
Getting Reliable Results (If You Hire A Professional Radon Tester)
In many cases, home buyers and sellers may decide to have the radon test done by a
professional radon tester. Make sure that the company you hire is listed in EPA's Radon
Measurement Proficiency (RMP) Program or your state's certification program, if it has
one.
EPA's Radon Measurement Proficiency (RMP) program is designed to help you get reliable
radon tests. RMP program participants are required to show their ability to make accurate
tests and follow quality assurance and EPA test guidelines. EPA issues RMP reports for
your state. These reports list testing companies and individuals in your area qualified to
follow EPA's residential radon testing requirements. Make sure you ask to see the
professional radon tester's photo I.D. card.
Interpreting Radon Test Results
The average indoor radon level is estimated to be about 1.3 pCi/L, and about 0.4 pCi/L of
radon is normally found in the outside air. The U. S. Congress has set a long-term goal
that indoor radon levels be no more than outdoor levels. While this goal is not yet
technologically achievable for all homes, the radon levels in some homes today can be
reduced to 2 pCi/L or below.
WHAT WILL A PROFESSIONAL RADON TESTER DO?
An EPA listed or state certified radon tester knows the proper conditions, test devices,
and guidelines to get a reliable radon test. A professional radon tester can also:
Evaluate the home and recommend a testing approach designed to make sure you get reliable
results; Explain how proper conditions can be maintained during the radon
test; Emphasize to occupants of a home that a reliable test result depends on their
cooperation because any interference or disturbance with the test or the closed-house
conditions, especially, during short-term testing, will invalidate the test
result; Analyze and report measurement results to you; and Provide an
independent test result by someone who is not involved in the home sale.
Your state radon office may also have information about certification requirements for
professional radon testers. Contact your State radon office for information about RMP and
state certified contractors.
RADON TEST RESULTS MEASURED IN TWO DIFFERENT UNITS
Your radon test results may be reported in either picocuries per Liter of Air (pCi/L) or
Working Levels (WL).
If your test result is in pCi/L, EPA recommends you fix the home if your radon level is 4
pCi/L or higher. If the test result is in WL, EPA recommends you fix the home if the
working level is 0.02 WL or higher.
Sometimes short-term tests are less definitive about whether the home is at or above 4
pCi/L. This can happen when your results are close to 4 pCi/L. For example, if the average
of the two short-term tests is 4.1 pCi/L, there is about a 50% chance that the year-round
average is somewhat below 4 pCi/L. However, EPA believes that any
radon exposure carries some risk; no level of radon is safe. Even radon levels below 4
pCi/L pose some risk, and you can reduce your risk of lung cancer by lowering your radon
level.
Like other environmental pollutants, there is some uncertainty about the magnitude of
radon health risks. However, we know more about radon risks than risks from most other
cancer-causing substances. This is because estimates of radon risks are based on studies
in humans (underground miners). Additional studies on more typical populations are under
way.
Your radon measurement will give you an idea of your risk of getting lung cancer from
radon. Your chances of getting lung cancer from radon depend mostly on:
The home's radon level; and
The amount of time you spend in your home; and
Whether you are a smoker or have ever smoked.
Smoking combined with radon is an especially serious health risk. If you smoke or are a
former smoker, the presence of radon greatly increases your risk of lung cancer. If you
stop smoking now and lower the radon level in your house, you will reduce your lung cancer
risk.
RADON RISK IF YOU SMOKE
Radon If 1,000 people The risk of cancer WHAT TO
Level were exposed to compares to.** Stop
this level over Smoking
a lifetime... and...
20 pCi/L About 135 people <-100 times the risk Fix your
could get lung of drowning home
cancer
10 pCi/L About 71 people <-100 times the risk Fix your
could get lung of dying in a home home
cancer
8 pCi/L About 57 people Fix your
could get lung home
cancer
4 pCi/L About 29 people <-100 times the risk Fix your
could get lung of dying in an home
cancer airplane crash
Consider
fixing
between
2 and 4
pCi/L
2 pCi/L About 15 people <-2 times the risk
could get lung of dying in a car
cancer crash
1.3 pCi/L About 9 people (Average indoor (Reducing
could get lung ration level) radon
cancer levels
below 2
pCi/L is
difficult)
0.4 pCi/L About 3 people (Average outdoor
could get lung radon level)
cancer
Note: If you are a former smoker, your risk may be lower.
RADON RISK IF YOU HAVE NEVER SMOKED
Radon If 1,000 people The risk of cancer WHAT TO
Level were exposed to compares to.** Stop
this level over Smoking
a lifetime... and...
20 pCi/L About 8 people <-The risk of being Fix your
could get lung killed in a violent home
cancer crime
10 pCi/L About 4 people Fix your
could get lung home
cancer
8 pCi/L About 3 people <-10 times the risk Fix your
could get lung of dying in an home
cancer airplane crash
4 pCi/L About 2 people <-The risk of drowning Fix your
could get lung home
cancer
Consider
fixing
between
2 and 4
pCi/L
2 pCi/L About 1 person <-The risk of dying
could get lung in a home fire
cancer
1.3 pCi/L Less than 1 person (Average indoor (Reducing
could get lung ration level) radon
cancer levels
below 2
pCi/L is
difficult)
0.4 pCi/L Less than 1 person (Average outdoor
could get lung radon level)
cancer
Note: If you are a former smoker, your risk may be higher.
What Should You Do If You Find A High Radon Level?
High Radon Levels Can Be Reduced
EPA recommends that you take action to reduce your home's indoor radon levels if your
radon test result is 4
pCi/L or higher.
It is preferable to correct a radon problem before placing your home on the market because
then you have more time to address a radon problem. If elevated levels are found during
the real estate transaction, the buyer and seller should discuss the timing and costs of
the radon reduction, as with any other aspect of the home purchase
and sale.
The cost of making repairs to reduce radon depends on how your home was built and other
factors. Most homes can be fixed for about the same cost as other common home repairs,
like painting or having a new hot water heater installed. The average cost for a
contractor to lower radon levels in a home is about $1,200, although this
can range from $500 to about $2,500.
How To Lower The Radon Level In Your Home A variety of methods can be used to reduce radon
in homes. Sealing cracks and other openings in the foundation is a basic part of most
approaches to radon reduction. EPA does not recommend the use of sealing alone to reduce
radon because, by itself, sealing has not been shown to
lower radon levels significantly or consistently. In most cases, systems with pipes and
fans are used to reduce radon. Such systems are called "subslab
depressurization," and do not require major changes to your home. These systems
prevent radon gas from entering the home from below the concrete floor and the foundation.
Similar systems can also be installed in homes with crawl spaces. Radon reduction
contractors may use other methods that may also work in your home. The right system
depends on the design of your home and other factors. As with any other household
appliance, there would be costs associated with the operation of the radon
reduction system.
Ways to reduce radon are discussed in EPA's "Consumer's Guide to Radon
Reduction." Call your state radon office to get a copy.
You should also test your home again after it is fixed to be sure that radon levels have
been reduced. If your living patterns change and you begin occupying a lower level of your
home (such as a basement) you should retest your home on that level. In addition, it is a
good idea to retest your home sometime in the future to be sure radon levels remain
low.
RADON AND HOME RENOVATIONS If you are planning any major renovations, such as converting
an unfinished basement area into living space, it is especially important to test the area
for radon before you begin the renovation. If your test results indicate a radon problem,
radon resistant techniques can be inexpensively included as part of the renovation.
Because major renovations can change the level of radon in any home, always test again
after work is completed.
WHAT SERVICES DO RADON REDUCTION CONTRACTORS PROVIDE?
Contractors who participate in EPA's RCP program are qualified to:
Review testing guidelines and measurement results and determine if additional measurements
are needed; Evaluate the radon problem and provide you with a detailed, written
proposal on how radon levels will be lowered;
Design a radon reduction system; Install the system according to EPA Standards and
State or local codes; and Make sure the finished system effectively reduces radon
levels to acceptable levels.
Picking someone to fix your radon problem is much like choosing a contractor for other
home repairs; you may want to get references and more than one estimate. Call your state
radon office for a list of the names of EPA listed or state certified radon contractors in
your area. Your state radon office may also have information about
certification requirements for these contractors.
Selecting A Radon Reduction Contractor
You should use a radon reduction contractor who is listed by EPA's Radon Contractor
Proficiency (RCP) Program. This Program tests the technical knowledge of contractors to
ensure that hey can correct radon problems. RCP contractors must follow specific
guidelines which make certain that their work meets minimum
quality standards. RCP contractors carry photo I.D. cards and are listed in RCP Program
reports.
Radon reduction contractors are required to take the RCP exam and then follow the RCP
Mitigation Standards. These standards are available from your state radon office. The RCP
radon reduction contractor is also required to review radon measurement results before
beginning radon reduction work.
In addition, the RCP contractor must recommend that the home be tested again by an
independent EPA listed or state certified radon tester after completing radon reduction
work to confirm that elevated levels have been reduced.
RADON IN WATER
Compared to radon entering the home through soft, radon entering the home through water in
most cases will be a small source of risk. Radon gas can enter the home through well
water. It can be released into the air you breathe when water is used for showering and
other household uses. Research suggests that swallowing water with high radon levels may
pose risks, too, although risks from swallowing water containing radon are believed to be
much lower than those from breathing air containing radon.
While radon in water is not a problem in homes served by most public water supplies, radon
has been found in well water. If you have tested the air in your home and found a radon
problem, and your water comes from a well, have the water tested. If you are on a public
water supply and are concerned that radon may be entering your home through the water,
call your public water supplier. The testing device and procedures used to find out the
radon levels of your home's water supply are different from the device and procedures used
to test your home's indoor air levels for radon.
Radon problems in water can be read fly fixed. The most effective treatment is to remove
radon from the water before it enters the home. This is called point-of-entry treatment.
Treatment at your water tap is called point-of-use treatment. Point-of-use devices usually
only treat a small portion of your water and are not effective in reducing radon risk in
water.
Call your State radon office for a copy of the "Consumer's Guide to Radon
Reduction" or call EPA's Drinking Water Hotline (1 800 426-4791) for more information
on radon in water.
SHOULD YOUR RADON TESTER ALSO BE YOUR RADON REDUCTION CONTRACTOR?
Be aware that there is a potential conflict of interest if you use the same company to
conduct both the test and the radon reduction of the home. If the same radon testing
professional also offers to do radon reduction of the home, make sure that the testing is
done according to the Testing Checklist.
EPA's Radon Proficiency Programs (RMP and RCP) work together to protect home buyers and
sellers. Make sure you only hire professional testers and radon reduction contractors who
are EPA qualified or state certified. Always ask to see the contractor's I.D. card.
You should also consider getting more than one cost estimate and asking for references
from radon testing and radon reduction companies in your area.
Some states have additional certification requirements, and may require the homeowner to
sign a waiver if one firm conducts both testing and radon reduction. Contact your state
radon office for more information.
RADON MYTHS/FACTS
MYTH: Scientists are not sure that radon really is a problem.
FACT: Although some scientists dispute the precise number of deaths due to radon, the
major health organizations (like the Centers for Disease Control, the American Lung
Association and the American Medical Association) agree with estimates that radon causes
thousands of preventable lung cancer deaths every year. This is especially true among
smokers, since the risk to smokers is much greater than to non-smokers.
MYTH: Radon testing devices are not reliable and are difficult to find.
FACT: Radon testing can be conducted by professionally trained RMP listed or state
certified radon tester.
Active radon devices can continuously gather and periodically record radon levels reveal
any unusual swings in the radon level during the test.
Reliable testing devices are also available through the mail, in hardware stores and other
retail outlets. Call your state radon office for a list of radon device companies that
have met EPA requirements for reliability or are state certified.
MYTH: Radon testing is difficult and time-consuming.
FACT: Radon testing is easy. You can test your own home or you can hire an EPA listed or
state certified radon tester. Either approach takes only a small amount of the homeowner's
time or effort.
MYTH: Homes with radon problems cannot be fixed.
FACT: There are solutions to radon problems in homes. Thousands of home owners have
already lowered elevated radon levels in their homes. Radon levels can be readily lowered
for $500 to $2,500. Call your state radon office for a list of contractors that have met
EPA requirements or are state certified.
MYTH: Radon only affects certain types of homes.
FACT: Radon can be a problem in all types of homes such as old homes, new homes, drafty
homes, insulated homes, homes with basements and homes without basements. Construction
materials and the way the home has been built may also affect radon levels.
MYTH: Radon is only a problem in certain parts of the country.
FACT: High radon levels have been found in every state. Radon problems do vary from area
to area, but the only way to know the home's radon level is to test.
MYTH: A neighbor's test result is a indication of whether your home has a radon
problem.
FACT: It is not. Radon levels vary from home to home. The only way to know if your home
has a radon problem is to test it.
MYTH: Everyone should test his or her water for radon.
FACT: While radon gets into some homes through the water, it is important to first the air
in the home for radon. If high radon levels are found and the home has a well, call the
Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1 800-426. 4791, or your state radon office for more
information.
MYTH: It is difficult to sell a home where radon problems have been discovered.
FACT: Where radon problems have been fixed, home sales have not been blocked. The added
protection could be a good selling point.
MYTH: I have lived in my home for so long, it does not make sense to take action
now.
FACT: You will reduce your risk of lung cancer when you reduce radon levels, even if you
have lived with a radon problem for a long time.
MYTH: Short-term tests cannot be used for making a decision about whether to reduce the
home's high radon levels.
FACT: Short-term tests may be used to decide whether to reduce the home's high radon
levels. However, the closer the short-term testing result is to 4 pCi/L, the less
certainty there is about whether the home's year-round average is above or below that
level. Keep in mind that radon levels below 4 pCi/L still pose some risk and that
radon levels can be reduced in some homes to 2 pCi/L or below.
STATE RADON CONTACTS
Alabama ................................800/582-1866
205/242-5315
Alaska .................................800/478-4845
907/465-3019
Arizona ................................602/255-4845
Arkansas ...............................501/661-2301
California .............................800/745-7236
916/324-2208
Colorado ...............................800/846-3986
303/692-3057
Connecticut ............................203/566-3122
Delaware ...............................800/554-4636
302/739-3028
District of Columbia ..............202/727-7106
Florida ...................................800/543-8279
904/488-1525
Georgia .................................800/745-0037
404/894-6644
Guam ....................................617/646-8863
Hawaii ..................................808/586-4700
Idaho ....................................800/445-8647
208/334-6584
Illinois ...................................800/325-1245
217/524-5641
Indiana ................................800/272-9723
317/633-8563
Iowa .....................................800/383-5992
515/281-3478
Kansas ................................913-296-1561
Kentucky ..............................502/564-3700
Louisiana ..............................800/256-2494
504/925-7042
Maine ..................................800/232-0842
207/287-5676
Maryland ...............................800/872-3666
410/631-3301
Massachusetts ..........................413/586-7525
Michigan ...............................517/335-8200
Minnesota ..............................800/798-9050
612/627-5480
Mississippi ............................800/626-7739
601/354-6657
Missouri ...............................800/669-7236
314/751-6083
Montana ................................406/444-3671
Nebraska ...............................800/334-9491
402/471-2168
Nevada .................................702/687-5394
New Hampshire ....................800/852-3345 x 4674
603/271-4674
New Jersey .............................800/648-0394
609/987-6369
New Mexico .............................505/827-4300
New York ...............................800/458-1158
518/458-6495
North Carolina .........................919/571-4141
North Dakota ...........................701/221-5188
Ohio ...................................800/523-4439
614/644-2727
Oklahoma ...............................405/271-5221
Oregon .................................503/731-4014
Pennsylvania ...........................800/237-2366
717/783-3594
Puerto Rico ............................809/767-3563
Rhode Island ...........................401/277-2438
South Carolina .........................800/768-0362
803/734-4631
South Dakota ...........................800/438-3367
605/773-3351
Tennessee ..............................800/232-1139
615/532-0733
Texas .......................................512/834-6688
Utah .........................................801/536-4250
Vermont ..................................800/640-0601
802/865-7730
Virginia ...................................800/468-0138
804/786-5932
Washington .............................800/323-9727
206/753-4518
West Virginia ..........................800/922-1255
304/558-3526
Wisconsin ..............................800/798-9050
608/267-4796
Wyoming ................................800/458-5847
307/777-6015
Where Can You Get More Information About Radon?
For more information on how to reduce your radon health risk, ask your state radon office
to send you these guides:
Protocols for Radon and Radon Decay Product Measurements in Homes
Citizen's Guide to protecting Yourself and Your Family from Radon Consumer's Guide to
Radon Reduction
If you plan to make repairs yourself, be sure to contact your state radon office for a
current copy of EPA's technical guidance on radon reduction, "Radon Reduction
Techniques for Detached Houses -- Technical Guidance."
Contact the EPA's Drinking Water Hotline (1 800 426-4791) for information on radon in
water.
SURGEON GENERAL HEALTH ADVISORY
"Indoor radon gas is a national health problem. Radon causes thousands of deaths each
year. Millions of homes have elevated radon levels. Homes should be tested for radon. When
elevated levels are confirmed, the problem should be corrected."
Consumers need to know about the health of a house they are considering purchasing,
including whether there is a radon problem, and if so, how to fix it. The Home Buyer's and
Seller's Guide to Radon provides practical consumer information that every home buyer
needs to know.