Radon is a significant concern in real estate transactions, yet it often doesn’t receive the attention it deserves. This naturally occurring radioactive gas, which seeps into homes from the ground, poses a serious health risk, particularly in enclosed spaces. For both buyers and sellers, understanding radon and addressing it during the home buying or selling process is crucial to ensuring safety and peace of mind.
A 2022 study found that around 15% of ground-level units in multifamily buildings across 29 states had radon levels above 4 pCi/L, and the newest testing requirements are not enough to ensure safe levels of radon.
Radon levels are influenced by several environmental and structural factors that change with the seasons. Recognizing these factors can help you understand when to test and how to mitigate radon effectively.
Invisible to the naked eye, the only way to determine if radon is accumulating to dangerous levels is by testing. However, a test can only be effective if steps are taken to ensure proper testing conditions are met.
As NRPP certified radon measurement professionals (RMPs), we frequently get asked about the differences between short-term and long-term radon testing. Here’s what homeowners need to know about choosing a test, and why long-term kits provide the most accurate results.
With the Air Quality Index (AQI) playing a crucial role in assessing the quality of our air, it's natural to wonder how it can impact the results of radon testing. Though it primarily focuses on outdoor air pollutants, AQI can indirectly impact the results of radon testing, especially in residential dwellings.
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has taken a crucial step towards safeguarding the health and well-being of tenants living in multifamily properties backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. With the adoption of a more robust 2023 Enterprise Multifamily Radon Policy, the FHFA is ensuring that the Enterprises' properties continue to offer safe and sustainable housing across the United States.
According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, about one in five homes in the state has elevated radon levels above the EPA's recommended action level of 4 pCi/L. If you're a homeowner or property manager in Texas, it's crucial to understand the risks of radon exposure and to take action to protect your family, tenants, and employees.
