Radon is colorless, odorless and invisible — and the only way to know your home's level is to test. Mark Schumacher makes it simple to add to any inspection.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced when uranium in soil and rock breaks down. It can enter any home through cracks in the foundation, crawl spaces, sump pits and gaps around pipes — new or old, with or without a basement.
The EPA estimates radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among people who don't smoke, and it recommends fixing homes with radon levels at or above 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L). Parts of Middle Tennessee have moderate to high radon potential, and levels can vary widely even between neighboring houses.
Home Inspections by SP&D performs short-term radon testing under closed-house conditions, typically for a minimum of 48 hours. You'll receive your results with a clear explanation of what they mean for your purchase or your family.
A few key facts about radon and why testing matters.
You can't see, smell or taste radon. Testing is the only way to know.
New construction, older homes, slabs, crawl spaces and basements can all have radon.
The EPA's action level for recommending radon mitigation.
Elevated radon can be reduced with a professionally installed mitigation system.
The inspection period is the ideal time to test for radon. If levels come back elevated, many buyers negotiate for the seller to install a mitigation system or provide a credit toward one.
Already living in your home? The EPA recommends testing every home, and retesting after major renovations, foundation work or changes to the HVAC system.
Mitigation systems typically draw radon from beneath the home and vent it safely above the roofline. A follow-up test after installation confirms the system is working.
Mark sets up and manages the test from start to finish:
Windows and exterior doors stay closed, except for normal entry and exit, for 12 hours before and during the test. Heating and air conditioning can run normally. These conditions help produce an accurate reading.
Yes. Radon levels can differ significantly from one house to the next, even on the same street, because of soil conditions and construction differences.
The EPA recommends mitigation. A radon mitigation contractor can install a system that reduces levels, and a follow-up test confirms the results.
Yes. New construction can have elevated radon. Some builders install passive radon systems, but testing is still the only way to know your level.
Four steps to a reliable radon result.
Call 561-301-7571 to add radon testing to your inspection or book it on its own.
Mark places the test in the lowest livable level and explains closed-house conditions.
The test runs for at least 48 hours while the home stays closed up.
Mark reports your average radon level and explains your options.
EPA Action Level 4.0 pCi/L • Add to Any Inspection • TN License #1374 • Serving Nashville & Middle Tennessee