ABOUT RADON INSPECTIONS IN MARYLAND AND NORTHERN VIRGINIA

If you could see it, it would probably be ugly, but you can't. So, in many areas of Maryland and Northern Virginia, buyers test for radon. Often the radon test is a contingency included in the Contract of Sale. The Seller agrees that the Buyer will have an inspection for radon levels and, if the test results show a high reading, the seller will agree to have a radon remediation system installed prior to settlement. All of these terms and conditions are negotiable. Radon tests in Maryland and Northern Virginia performed by inspectors cost about $125-$160.

If the radon level is high, 4 picoCuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher, a simple radon remediation system can be installed following which the radon level will be reduced to below that recommended level. The cost of radon remediation systems is about $900-$1500 depending on the availability of ventilation areas which is determined house by house by the remediation company. If the seller doesn't agree to provide you with a remediation system, you can easily do the test and remediation following settlement.

EPA recommends that all homeowners test their home for radon. It's easy and inexpensive. Radon can be found all over the U.S. However, the radon levels varies from area to area and can even vary widely from block to block. Most high readings are found in the higher elevations of our market area. Radon comes from the natural (radioactive) breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water and gets into the air you breathe. Radon can be found all over the U.S. The gas can get into any type of building - homes, offices, and schools - and build up to high levels. But you and your family are most likely to get your greatest exposure at home. That's where you spend most of your time.

Detailed information about radon can be found on the EPA web site at:
http://www.epa.gov/radon/zonemap.html

Maryland Radon Map		Virginia Radon Map

RED = Highest Potential ORANGE = Moderate Potential YELLOW = Low Potential

Copyright 2005 Lenn Harley