Arkansas Radon Testing: Why Every Homebuyer Should Consider Testing Before Buying a Home

Arkansas Radon Testing: Why Every Homebuyer Should Consider Testing Before Buying a Home

Arkansas Radon Testing: Why Every Homebuyer Should Consider Testing Before Buying a Home Protect Your Family and Your Investment

If you're buying a home in Arkansas, radon testing should be an important part of your due diligence. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted. Because elevated radon levels can occur in any home regardless of its age, location, or construction type, professional testing is the only way to determine if a home has a radon problem.

Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas produced by the natural breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It can enter homes through foundation cracks, crawlspaces, slab joints, utility penetrations, sump pits, and other openings where the home contacts the ground.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) , radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, behind cigarette smoking , and the leading cause of lung cancer among people who have never smoked . Because radon cannot be detected by human senses, testing is the only way to know if elevated levels are present.

The Arkansas Radon Zone Map identifies areas with varying potential for elevated indoor radon levels. While the map is a valuable planning tool, it cannot predict the radon level inside an individual home. Homes located in low-potential areas can still have elevated radon concentrations, while homes in higher-potential areas may test below the EPA action level.

For this reason, the EPA recommends testing every home , regardless of where it is located.

The EPA recommends taking corrective action when indoor radon levels measure 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. If elevated levels are found, qualified radon mitigation professionals can often reduce radon concentrations to safer levels.

Professional radon testing provides accurate information about the indoor air quality of a home at the time of the inspection. Knowing the radon level before purchasing a home allows buyers to make informed decisions and, when necessary, negotiate mitigation before closing.

Cherokee Home Inspection LLC proudly provides professional radon testing throughout Arkansas. Our experienced team is committed to helping homebuyers understand potential environmental concerns so they can make informed decisions with confidence.

If you're purchasing a home, consider adding professional radon testing to your home inspection for added peace of mind.

Schedule your home inspection and radon test with Cherokee Home Inspection LLC today.