Radon - What You Need To Know

What is radon?

• Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from uranium in the ground that can get into your home undetected. You can’t see it, smell it or taste it.

• All homes have some level of radon. The question is how much, and the only way to know is to test.

• In confined spaces like a house, radon can build up to high levels and over time become a health risk.

• The current Canadian guideline for radon is 200 becquerels per cubic meter (200 Bq/m3).

• Techniques to lower radon levels are effective and can save lives. Radon levels can be reduced by more than 80% for about the same cost as other common home repairs such as replacing the furnace or air conditioner.

 

What are health risks?

• Radon exposure is the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. 16% of lung cancers are estimated to be from radon exposure, resulting in more than 3,000 lung cancer deaths in Canada each year.

• People who smoke and are exposed to radon have an even higher risk of lung cancer.

• The health risk from radon is long-term not immediate. The longer you are exposed to high levels of radon, the greater your risk.

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How can we help?

• Homescope Inspections is nationally certified through the Canadian National Radon Proficiency program (C-NRPP) to conduct professional radon measurements in homes.

• Homescope Inspections is a proud member of the Canadian Association of Scientists and technologies (CARST) 

• We will conduct a Real Estate Screening Assessment (4 to 7 days) using a professional grade, tamper resistant continuous radon monitor.

• You will receive a comprehensive report that will show hourly levels of radon in your home relative to temperature, time of day, humidity and barometric pressure.

• For homebuyers, a Real Estate Screening Assessment may assist during purchase negotiations and could include (at your discretion) an allowance for a radon mitigation system.