When you’re buying or selling a home on Long Island, especially in bustling Nassau or beautiful Suffolk County, it’s easy for some critical elements to get overlooked. One such element, often invisible but incredibly important, is radon. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes from the soil, and it’s a leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers. While awareness of radon is growing, many homeowners and real estate professionals still make common mistakes when it comes to testing. Let’s make sure you don’t!
Mistake #1: Skipping the Test Entirely or Waiting Too Long
This is by far the biggest and most dangerous mistake. Many people assume that because radon is invisible and odorless, it’s not a threat, or that their specific Long Island area isn’t affected. The truth is, radon levels vary significantly, even on the same street, and homes throughout Nassau and Suffolk County have shown elevated levels. Skipping a radon test means you’re potentially exposing yourself and your family to a serious health risk, or as a seller, leaving a major unknown for potential buyers. For buyers, testing during the inspection contingency period is crucial. For sellers, proactive testing can make your home more appealing and prevent last-minute snags.
Don’t fall into the trap of thinking “it won’t happen to me.” The EPA recommends taking action if radon levels are 4 pCi/L or higher. Identifying this before a transaction closes gives you time to consider mitigation, which is usually straightforward and effective.
Mistake #2: Improper Testing Conditions and DIY Pitfalls
Even when a test is performed, doing it incorrectly can lead to inaccurate results – giving you a false sense of security or unnecessary alarm. A common issue is not maintaining “closed-house conditions.” This means keeping all windows and exterior doors closed (except for normal entry and exit) for at least 12 hours before and throughout the entire test. Air conditioning is fine, but avoid using fans that bring in outside air.
Another frequent error, especially with DIY kits, is improper device placement. Test kits shouldn’t be placed in drafts, near windows or exterior doors, in direct sunlight, in high-humidity areas (like bathrooms), or in areas with high air movement. They also shouldn’t be in crawl spaces or extremely low-use areas. For accurate results, the device should be in the lowest lived-in level of the home (like a basement or first floor), at least 20 inches off the floor, and several feet from any walls or openings.
While DIY kits can offer initial screening, professional testing provides the highest accuracy and reliability. Certified professionals understand the nuances of test placement, environmental conditions, and proper protocols to ensure trustworthy results, giving all parties peace of mind.
Don’t leave your family’s health or your real estate transaction to chance. For reliable, professional radon testing in Nassau and Suffolk County, trust the experts who understand Long Island homes. The Inspection Boys are here to help you navigate the process with confidence and clarity. Schedule your radon test today!
Visit us at homeinspectionsli.com to learn more and book your inspection.
