Radon is an invisible threat that could be lurking right beneath your feet—literally. It’s a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that forms naturally from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. As harmless as it sounds, radon is anything but. In fact, it's the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, according to the EPA.

If you're a homeowner—or planning to buy or sell a home in Northeast Ohio—radon testing is not just a recommendation. It’s a smart, potentially life-saving move.

Why Radon Testing Matters in Ohio

Geographically, Ohio sits in a zone where radon levels are significantly higher than the national average. According to recent data, over 50% of basements in Northeast Ohio test above the EPA’s action level for radon.

Unlike mold or carbon monoxide, you can’t smell or see radon. The only way to detect it is through professional testing using calibrated equipment.

How Radon Testing Works

During a real estate transaction or routine inspection, a certified radon technician will use a continuous radon monitor—a device that collects data for at least 52 hours. This method meets Ohio’s minimum requirement for point-of-sale transactions and gives an accurate snapshot of the home’s radon levels.

These monitors are:

• Calibrated annually

• Licensed for professional use

• Used within strict quality control protocols

The results are averaged to provide a final radon concentration level, helping determine whether mitigation is necessary.

What Happens If a Home Tests High for Radon?

If a home’s radon level exceeds the EPA’s action level (4.0 pCi/L), a radon mitigation system is typically recommended. These systems are highly effective and usually cost between $1,500 and $2,000 depending on the size and layout of the home.

The installation process is relatively quick, and once in place, the system continuously vents radon gas out of the home—protecting the occupants long-term.

Radon Testing During Home Sales

In Ohio, radon inspections are commonly performed during the inspection contingency period of a real estate transaction. The results can influence negotiations, repairs, or mitigation plans before closing.

For buyers, it offers peace of mind.
For sellers, it demonstrates transparency and responsibility.

Final Thoughts

Radon may be invisible, but its risks are very real—especially here in Ohio. Whether you're buying, selling, or just want to ensure your home is safe, a professional radon inspection is a small step that can make a huge impact on your family's health.

👉 Need a radon inspection or have questions about the process?
Contact us at Great Move Realty to schedule your home evaluation today.