Virginia Association of Realtors issued the following announcement on March 3
PART 1: Radon Basics
Radon is a naturally occurring gaseous radioactive decay product of Uranium which is produced in certain types of rock and soil. Radon may enter the home through any type of foundation. High radon levels have been found throughout Virginia, especially in those counties designated by the EPA as moderate or high risk for radon. To view the Virginia radon risk map, click here.
RADON HEALTH RISK
Many scientific studies have concluded that radon may contribute to 21,000 cases of lung cancer in the USA each year – including over 600 cases in Virginia. It is thought to be the leading cause of lung cancer among people who have never smoked. Ex or current smokers who are also exposed to radon are at especially high risk.
HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?
The EPA has set a recommended mitigation level of 4.0 picoCuries per liter (pCi/L) for radon in indoor air. Many other countries have set radon action levels between 2.7 – 8.12 pCi/L.
RADON AND THE LAW
There are presently no state or federal laws that require radon testing or mitigation during a real estate transaction – it is negotiable between the parties. However, USEPA and VDH strongly recommend that all properties in Virginia be tested and, if necessary, mitigated for radon. The Code of Virginia requires that all radon professionals be currently certified by either the NRSB or the NRPP click here. Local governments in EPA designated high risk areas have the option to require passive radon reduction piping in new residential construction.
RADON IN VIRGINIA REAL ESTATE COURSE:
This information and more is presented in greater detail in 1 or 2 hour CE courses that are designed for Virginia REALTORS®. For more information, click here
Original source can be found here.
