Why Radon Became a Household Concern

The 1984 Stanley Watras incident helped bring residential radon to wider public attention. As described in the August 1986 EPA Journal, Watras triggered a radiation monitor while entering work at a Pennsylvania nuclear power plant. Investigators found unusually high radon in his home. Earlier research had already identified radon hazards in miners and some houses; this incident increased attention to naturally occurring radon in homes.

What a Test Can Tell You

A radon test provides information about the measured conditions during the collection period. It is not a guarantee of permanent safety or a complete indoor-air-quality assessment. A general visual home inspection does not establish a radon level; arrange radon testing as a specific service.

EPA recommends action at 4 pCi/L or above and consideration of reduction between 2 and 4 pCi/L. No exposure level is known to be risk-free. See EPA’s explanation of its action level for context, and discuss follow-up with a qualified radon professional.

Use Results in Your Home-Buying Decisions

Ask for the test date, collection conditions and any documentation of an existing mitigation system. Allow time to review findings and arrange follow-up before your transaction deadlines. Test results do not guarantee a particular sale price, seller concession or future repair cost.

Scheduling Radon Testing with Realm

Realm’s radon testing requires at least 48 hours of collection under the required test conditions. Reports are typically available 5–7 business days after the inspection or monitor deployment. This is separate from the home inspection report, expected by the end of the next business day after the inspection, barring unusual circumstances.

Review our radon testing service and discuss the property, access and deadlines when booking. For a newly built home, see radon-resistant construction and testing questions.

Contact or schedule with Realm Inspections to confirm the services appropriate for your property.