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NH | 603.891.4777

Email | info@abchomeinspection.com

ABC Serving  Parts of  New Hampshire and Massachusetts Since 1984  ¨A State Licensed Home Inspection Company¨

ALL ABOUT HOUSES BY ANDY CONSOLI

e Haverhill Life October 2017 article on Testing for Radon, ideal for homeowners, buyers, and property managers in Massachusetts and New Hampshire:

🏡 Radon Testing: What You Need to Know

🌬️ What Is Radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas.
It forms from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water.
Radon can enter your home through cracks in the foundation, and it is also present in well water.

⚠️ Why It Matters

Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., after smoking.
Long-term exposure to elevated radon levels is a serious health hazard.

📏 When to Take Action

The EPA recommends remediation if indoor radon levels reach 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher.

🧪 Radon Testing Options

🛠️ DIY Test Kits (Available at Hardware Stores)

Cost: ~$20 for the kit + ~$40 for lab analysis
Time: Results can take up to 2 weeks
Types:

Liquid scintillation test vials
Charcoal canisters (common alternative)

Best for: Homeowners on a budget, or those doing initial screening

👷 Professional Radon Testing

Cost: ~$200
Includes:

Delivery and setup of radon continuous monitor
Retrieval and analysis
Home consultation

Time: Results typically available within 2 days
Tip: Ask if the technician is certified by:

AARST-NRPP (National Radon Proficiency Program)
NRSB (National Radon Safety Board)

🔒 Massachusetts: Certification not required but recommended
🔒 New Hampshire: Certification is required

🛠️ If Radon Levels Are High

🧰 Common Fix: Sub-Slab Depressurization System

A vent pipe and fan system is installed under the basement slab.
It safely channels radon gas from below your home out through the roof.
Cost: Typically $1,200 – $2,500, but can reach $6,000+ for large or complex homes.

💡 Tip: Remediation is highly effective and should be done by a certified contractor.

📝 Homeowner Radon Checklist

Task

Yes / No

Is your home tested for radon (especially in basement)?

⬜

Are your radon levels under 4.0 pCi/L?

⬜

Did you use a certified technician (if in NH)?

⬜

Do you have a mitigation system if needed?

⬜

Is your well water tested (if applicable)?

⬜