February is Radon Awareness Month, a perfect time for homeowners to learn about a risk that often goes unnoticed. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms from the breakdown of uranium in soil. It can seep into homes through cracks in foundations, sump pumps, crawlspaces, and other openings—without any smell, taste, or visible warning signs.

Because radon is invisible, many homeowners assume it’s not a concern. In reality, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, and the only way to know your home’s radon level is to test.

That’s why we created this short video explaining radon inspections, what they involve, and why they matter for homeowners in Northeast Ohio.

What Is a Radon Inspection?

A radon inspection is a simple test that measures the amount of radon gas inside a home—typically in the lowest livable level, such as a basement or lower-level family room. During a real estate transaction, radon testing is often performed alongside a general home inspection, but homeowners can (and should) test even if they’re not planning to sell.

The test device is placed in the home for a set period of time—usually 48 hours for a real estate transaction. Once the test is complete, the device is sent to a lab for analysis, and the results show whether radon levels are within a safe range or if mitigation is recommended.

Why Radon Testing Matters for Buyers and Sellers

For buyers, radon testing provides peace of mind. Elevated radon levels don’t mean a home is unsafe forever—but they do mean mitigation should be addressed. Knowing this upfront allows buyers to make informed decisions during negotiations.

For sellers, proactive radon testing can prevent surprises. If elevated levels are found early, mitigation can be installed before listing, helping the home move smoothly through inspections and reducing last-minute stress.

For current homeowners, testing is simply a smart health decision. Even homes that tested low in the past should be retested every few years or after major renovations.

What Happens If Radon Levels Are High?

If a home shows elevated radon levels, the solution is typically a radon mitigation system. These systems are effective, affordable, and commonly installed in homes throughout Summit County and surrounding areas. Most systems work by venting radon gas safely outside before it can build up indoors.

The important thing to remember is this:
Radon is manageable—but only if you test.

Why Radon Awareness Matters Locally

Northeast Ohio is an area where radon can be present due to soil composition. That means homes of all ages, styles, and price points may be affected. New construction is not immune, and older homes aren’t automatically high-risk—it varies from property to property.

That’s why education is key. Understanding radon inspections helps homeowners protect their families, make confident real estate decisions, and avoid unnecessary fear or misinformation.

Watch the Video: Radon Inspections Explained

In our short video, we walk through:

• What radon is

• Why testing is important

• What a radon inspection looks like

• When homeowners should consider testing

Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply staying informed, this is a quick watch that can make a big difference.

Final Thoughts

Radon is one of those homeownership topics that doesn’t get much attention—until it does. Radon Awareness Month is a great reminder that small steps, like testing, can have a big impact on long-term health and peace of mind.

If you have questions about radon testing, inspections, or what to expect during a real estate transaction, we’re always here as a resource.