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Finding a Healthy Home

Radon in the Home

Why Do You Need to Test for Radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas that has been found in homes all over the United States. 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. Radon can also enter your home through well water. Your home can trap radon inside.

Nearly 1 out of every 15 homes in the United States is estimated to have an elevated radon level (4 pCi/L or more).

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 United States is estimated to have an elevated radon level (4 pCi/L or more).

EPA and the Surgeon General Recommend all Homes should be tested
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.
If you are thinking of buying a home, you may decide to accept an earlier test result from the seller, or ask the seller for a new test to be conducted by a qualified radon tester. Before you accept the seller's test, you should determine:

• The results of previous testing;
• Who conducted the previous test: the homeowner, a radon professional, or some other person;
• 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, if you want to use the basement as living space, test there; and
• What, if any, structural changes, alterations, or changes in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system have been made to the house since the test was done. Such changes may affect radon levels.

If you decide that a new test is needed, discuss it with the seller as soon as possible. If you decide to use a qualified radon tester, you may contact the EPA office serving Kansas and Colorado to obtain a copy of their approved list of radon testing companies.

Radiation, Asbestos, Lead, and Indoor Programs Branch (ARTD/RALI) 901 North 5th Avenue Kansas City, KS 66101 Phone: 913-551-7020 Radon Contact: Greg Crable (913) 551-7391 or Bob Dye (913) 551-7605