Radon can have a significant effect on the real estate industry. As a real estate agent, it’s crucial to understand the risks and solutions surrounding radon, especially when you encounter elevated radon levels in a property. If you’re dealing with a buyer worried about radon or a seller who must deal with it, understanding how to approach the situation can greatly impact the success of the transaction. This article will explore the top five things every real estate agent should know when dealing with radon in homes.
Radon Can Be Mitigated in Any Home
One of the first things real estate agents should understand is that radon levels above the EPA’s recommended threshold of 4.0 pCi/L are not an insurmountable problem. Radon is a manageable issue that can be addressed in any home. Radon mitigation systems are customizable, meaning that a solution can be implemented no matter the design or age of the property.
These systems work by venting radon from beneath the home and releasing it outside, typically via a fan and piping system. Whether the home has a basement, crawl space, or slab foundation, a radon mitigation system can be designed to suit the property’s specific needs. It’s essential to assure clients that radon levels can be reduced safely and that the mitigation process is routine for experienced professionals.
Begin the Mitigation Process Early
Time frequently plays a crucial role in real estate dealings, particularly when addressing radon concerns. If a home tests above the EPA action level, beginning the radon mitigation process before the final test results is a good idea. This can expedite the process and ensure everything is in place before closing.
Radon mitigation installations typically take just a few hours, but scheduling the installation early is essential to avoid delays. If the home requires retesting after mitigation, the results can take up to three days to be processed. Starting the mitigation early allows the system to be operational before the closing date, ensuring that the buyer can confidently move forward.
Digital Testing Devices and Flexible Payments Are Essential
Speed and reliability are key when dealing with radon in real estate transactions. Digital radon testing devices provide quick, accurate readings of radon levels. These devices can typically provide results within 48 hours, much faster than traditional charcoal tests, which take a week or more.
Working with a radon mitigation company that uses digital testing ensures that the process moves quickly, which is often critical in real estate deals. Furthermore, many radon companies offer flexible payment options, such as deducting the mitigation work from closing costs. This can make a big difference for sellers or buyers who may not have the funds available upfront, allowing them to address radon issues without financial strain.
Choose a Company with a Strong Reputation for Quality Work
When selecting a radon mitigation company, it’s essential to prioritize quality over price. Radon mitigation is a specialized procedure that demands expertise and familiarity. Not all companies are equally qualified, and cutting corners can lead to ineffective solutions.
Look for a radon professional with a proven track record and reliable customer service. Companies with experience handling various types of homes are better equipped to provide effective solutions. Ensuring the company offers solid warranties on their work is also crucial. A trustworthy company will support its services, offering assurance to both purchasers and vendors.
Radon Should Never Be Ignored
Radon gas poses a significant health hazard and must not be disregarded in real estate dealings. The EPA has associated radon exposure with lung cancer, ranking it as the second leading cause of this disease in the U.S. and the foremost cause among non-smokers. Radon gas can bind to airborne dust particles, and prolonged exposure may harm lung cells.
A property with elevated radon levels must address the issue promptly. Ignoring the problem can jeopardize the health of future homeowners and potentially lead to legal or financial complications. Whether the seller or buyer pays for the mitigation system, this step is essential to ensuring the safety of the home’s occupants.
Conclusion
Radon doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker in a real estate transaction. With the proper knowledge and resources, real estate agents can guide clients through testing, mitigating, and ensuring a safe environment. Recognizing that radon can be dealt with efficiently and promptly, along with selecting trustworthy contractors and payment methods, will help manage these scenarios with assurance.
If you’re a realtor who needs expert advice or assistance with radon-related issues, don’t hesitate to contact Radon Delete. A team of knowledgeable experts is available to offer advice and assistance, making sure your transactions go on without any hitches and securely. Reach out today to discuss how Radon Delete can help address radon concerns in your listings.