Passed the Home Inspection? You Still Need to Test for Radon—Here’s Why

So, your home passed inspection—now what? You may think you're in the clear and ready to move in, but there's one silent threat that many people overlook: radon. While home inspections cover electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and structural soundness, they usually don’t include radon testing unless specifically requested.

That means your home might be structurally sound, but still harboring dangerously high radon levels—a health risk that could take years to show up. Radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., responsible for over 20,000 deaths per year. So if you haven't tested for it yet, you're potentially living with an invisible danger.

What Is Radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It can seep into your home through:

* Cracks in the foundation

* Gaps around pipes

* Floor drains

* Sump pumps

Because it’s colorless, odorless, and tasteless, it’s impossible to detect without specialized equipment. That’s why radon testing is the only way to know your home’s levels.

Why Radon Testing Is Still Essential—Even After a Home Inspection

Many homeowners skip radon testing because their home passed inspection. But here’s why that’s a dangerous assumption:

1. Home inspections don't usually include radon testing. It's an optional service that needs to be added on.

2. Radon levels vary from house to house—even in the same neighborhood. Your neighbor might have safe levels, while your home is off the charts.

3. Radon exposure is a long-term health risk. You won’t notice immediate symptoms, but years of exposure can lead to deadly consequences.

Radon Risk: What the EPA Recommends

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon levels above 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) are considered hazardous. But even lower levels—between 2 and 4 pCi/L—still pose a risk and may warrant mitigation.

The EPA recommends testing every home, regardless of age, foundation type, or location. That includes:

* Newly built homes

* Homes with basements or crawl spaces

* Slab-on-grade homes

* Mobile homes

Common Myths That Put Families at Risk

Let’s clear up some dangerous misconceptions:

Myth #1: Radon isn’t a problem in my state.

Truth: Radon has been found in every state in the U.S., and levels can vary dramatically—even from one street to another.

Myth #2: Only older homes have radon issues.

Truth: New homes are often more airtight, making it easier for radon to accumulate.

Myth #3: I don’t have a basement, so I’m safe.

Truth: Radon can enter through any part of the foundation, including slab floors and crawl spaces.

How to Test for Radon: Simple, Fast, and Affordable

Testing for radon is easier than most people think. You have two main options:

1. Short-Term Test Kits

These are placed in the lowest livable area of your home (like the basement) for 2–7 days. They’re affordable, available at hardware stores or online, and give quick results.

2. Long-Term Test Kits

These measure radon levels over 90 days to a year, offering a more accurate reflection of average exposure.

3. Professional Testing

Hiring a certified radon specialist ensures accurate results and can speed up the testing process, especially during real estate transactions.

What If Your Home Has High Radon Levels?

If your radon levels come back high, don’t panic. There are proven ways to fix it.

Radon Mitigation Systems

These systems use a vent pipe and fan to draw radon from beneath the house and release it into the air outside. Key features:

* Typically installed in one day

* Can reduce radon levels by up to 99%

* Cost between $800 and $1,500 (a small price for peace of mind)

Buying or Selling? Why Radon Testing Is a Deal-Maker

If you're in the middle of a real estate transaction, radon testing is a must—for both buyers and sellers. Here’s why:

* Buyers gain peace of mind and leverage in negotiations.

* Sellers who pre-test can avoid delays or surprises during closing.

Some states even require radon disclosure, so it’s smart to handle it proactively.

Radon-Resistant Construction: A Smart Investment

If you're building a new home, ask your builder about radon-resistant construction techniques. These include:

* Gas-permeable layers beneath the slab

* Plastic sheeting

* Sealing of foundation openings

* Vent pipes to direct radon away

The best part? It’s cheaper to install during construction than to retrofit later.

Long-Term Health Risks: Why You Can’t Afford to Wait

Radon exposure doesn't cause immediate symptoms, which is what makes it so dangerous. Over time, however, it increases your risk of developing lung cancer, especially if you smoke.

Even low levels of radon can be harmful with extended exposure. Children and the elderly are especially vulnerable due to weaker immune systems and developing lungs.

Conclusion: Don’t Wait—Test for Radon Today

You’ve done the hard work of passing your home inspection, but don’t let radon slip through the cracks. Just because your home looks perfect doesn’t mean it’s safe from this invisible threat.

Testing for radon is simple, affordable, and could save your life. If levels are high, mitigation is quick and effective. Whether you’re buying, selling, or staying put, make radon testing part of your home maintenance checklist.

Protect your family, protect your investment—radon test now. Learn more or schedule a test at https://www.radonindianapolis.com.