Radon Testing

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and groundwater. It can enter homes through cracks, gaps, crawl spaces, and utility penetrations.

Radon cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, so testing is the only way to know the radon level inside a home. Long-term radon exposure increases health risks including lung cancer.

Most short-term radon tests used during real estate transactions run for at least 48 hours. The exact testing period depends on the testing equipment and availability of the testing space. A longer test provides more data for determining mitigation if needed.

The EPA recommends taking mitigation action to reduce radon when the average test result is 4 picocuries per liter, or pCi/L, or higher. The EPA also recommends ventilation and ongoing monitoring when levels are between 2 and 4 pCi/L.

Yes. Newer homes can have elevated radon levels just like older homes. The EPA recommends testing newly built homes, even when radon-resistant construction techniques were used.

Yes. Two nearby homes can have very different radon readings because soil conditions, foundation construction, ventilation, and other building characteristics can vary. A neighbor’s radon result cannot tell you the level inside your home.

For many short-term tests, closed-house conditions are required. EPA guidance for tests lasting less than four days calls for keeping windows and outside doors closed, except for normal entry and exit, beginning at least 12 hours before testing and continuing throughout the test.

Radon testing is generally performed in the lowest level of the home that is suitable for regular occupancy. The exact placement depends on the home and the type of testing equipment being used.

We use industry standard equipment for Oregon and Washington that performs continuous air monitoring in the home for a minimum of 48 hours to establish baseline radon levels at the time of inspection.

Yes. For home buyers, we will include a written report with your test results in your home inspection report. If this is a standalone radon test, we will provide you with a written report that outlines your test results and recommendations to address any findings.

Absolutely!

$175

A report will be provided the same day testing is complete. If testing is part of a home inspection, the home inspection report will be updated with test information on the day of test completion.

Gorge Quality Home Inspection provides radon testing throughout the Columbia River Gorge, Portland metro area, and Southwest Washington, including Hood River, The Dalles, Mosier, Cascade Locks, White Salmon, Stevenson, Goldendale, Gresham, Portland, Vancouver, and surrounding communities.