Radon Knowledge Base

Additional Radon Questions for Home Buyers

This page gathers additional buyer questions about radon in a real-estate setting. It is educational and should not be treated as legal, contract, or negotiation advice. Buyers should work with their real estate professional or attorney on deadlines, credits, repair terms, and closing decisions. American Radon Systems can help with the mitigation side: what an elevated result may mean for the home, whether an existing system looks reasonable, whether a passive pipe may need activation, and what a system installation or repair could involve. The goal is to make the radon part clearer without stepping into transaction advice.

My inspector found radon at 3.9. Should I ask the seller to mitigate?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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Can I use an Airthings as my real estate radon test in Illinois?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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My agent says the seller won't work through the next step on radon mitigation. What can I do?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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If I have radon fixed after closing, will it affect my home value?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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The test at the house I'm buying came back at 6.2. That seems really high. Is this house ruined?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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How do I know if the radon test was done correctly? My agent just handed me a number on a sheet.

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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At what radon level should a buyer actually walk away from a deal?

That part should be handled through the transaction, lease, or property-management process, not as contract or lease advice from a mitigation contractor. The radon side is more straightforward: confirm the result if appropriate, understand whether an existing system works, and decide whether mitigation, passive activation, repair, or follow-up testing is needed for the specific property. A buyer, seller, tenant, or landlord should talk with the appropriate real estate, legal, property-management, or housing contact about deadlines, credits, contract rights, or lease obligations. Bill can help explain what the mitigation work would involve and what property details should be checked.

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The seller is offering a a small amount repair allowance for radon instead of mitigating. Is that enough?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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My realtor is telling me to just move forward and test after closing. Is that okay?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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If I ask for radon mitigation in my offer and the seller says no, can I still back out?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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My home inspector says they do radon testing too. Is that fine or should I get a separate company?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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The house I'm buying has both a finished basement and an unfinished crawl space under an addition. How do I test that?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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Is radon testing required to buy a house in Illinois?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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Does Illinois require sellers to disclose radon?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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What part of Illinois has the highest radon levels?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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My realtor says Illinois requires a radon test at every sale. Is that true?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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Is the Illinois radon program the agency I should look to for radon guidance in Illinois?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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I heard Illinois has special rules for radon testing protocols. What's different from other states?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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Does Illinois have a state radon program that helps homeowners with mitigation costs?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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How soon before closing does the radon test need to be done?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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My agent says we can do a radon test after our offer is accepted. When exactly should we schedule it?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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The seller claims they have a continuous monitor that has shown readings below 2.0 for the past year. Is that good enough?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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The house we tested had a result of exactly 4.0. Do we need mitigation or not?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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How do I know if the radon tester is actually licensed?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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Is an online radon certification from any old website legitimate in Illinois?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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My agent told me if I ask for radon mitigation I'll lose the house in this competitive market. Is that true?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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My agent says the seller won't disclose anything about radon because they never tested. Is that okay?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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I want to sell my house in a few years. If I mitigate now, do I need to disclose that?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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My real-estate professional says I should include a radon contingency in my offer. What does that mean exactly?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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Can I work through the next step a lower purchase price because of radon instead of asking for mitigation?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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What happens if the seller mitigates and the post-mitigation test is still elevated?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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Can I make the post-mitigation test a condition of closing?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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My real-estate professional says radon isn't addressed in the purchase contract. Should I add it?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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The seller says they'll escrow money for radon mitigation after closing. Should I accept that?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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The seller reduced the price by a small amount for radon. Is that enough?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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What if radon comes up after my inspection period is over but before closing?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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Can Airthings be used for real estate transactions in Illinois?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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My inspector wants to use a continuous monitor for the radon test. Is that legitimate?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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The inspector says they'll do the radon test with an electronic monitor but I've only heard of charcoal canisters. Should I be worried?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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Can I work through the next step on the price of radon mitigation or is it pretty fixed?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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The disclosure says the home has never had radon above 4.0 pCi/L. Does that mean the current level is fine?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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My buyer's agent said they've never seen a radon issue in this price range of homes. Is that a real thing?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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We're in a hot market and I made an offer without an inspection contingency. Can I still test for radon?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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I'm a veteran using a VA-backed purchase to buy a house that tested at 5.0 pCi/L. Does the VA have radon requirements?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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I'm buying a house as an investment to rent out. Do my tenants have a right to know about radon?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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Is there a radon rating system for houses like there is for energy efficiency?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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The sellers did a radon test with a liquid scintillation detector. What is that?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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The seller has a radon mitigation installation record on file. Is that a good sign?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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My agent told me radon testing isn't common in this part of Illinois. Should I still test?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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The house we're buying tested at 11 pCi/L. That seems really scary. Is the house even salvageable?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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What questions should I ask a radon mitigator when getting a bid?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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I'm closing in three days. The seller just told me they're mitigating tomorrow. Should I trust that's enough time?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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I'm buying with a contingency on radon but my agent says we should set the trigger level at 4.0. Is that the right number?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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What language should I look for in a radon contingency clause?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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How long do I typically have to conduct a radon test under a standard inspection contingency?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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My real-estate professional wants to add a radon contingency but the seller's real-estate professional is pushing back. Is radon contingency language really that non-standard?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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The contract says if radon exceeds 4.0, seller will mitigate "to the extent reasonably possible." Is that good enough?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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The seller wants me to pay for my own mitigation after closing in exchange for a lower sale price. Is that a reasonable arrangement?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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What if the seller's mitigation company shows up the day before closing? Can I trust it was done properly?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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My purchase agreement says "radon test to be completed by buyer at buyer's expense." Does that mean the seller won't pay for mitigation if levels are high?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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I've never bought a house before and I didn't know I was supposed to test for radon until my inspector mentioned it. Is it too late?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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Can a buyer's radon test result be used by the seller to dispute other issues in the work through the next step?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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I called three radon mitigation companies for bids on a 4.6 result. One is much cheaper than the others. Should I go with the cheapest?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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My radon test came back 4.0 exactly and the sellers are saying that's not above the limit so they don't have to do anything. Who's right?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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The seller says the radon system was installed by a "handyman friend." Should I be concerned?

Illinois has specific rules for radon measurement and mitigation work, so the safest public answer is to keep this practical. Use properly licensed radon professionals, keep clear records, and rely on a current radon result when deciding what to do next. If the result is elevated or confusing, Bill can explain what mitigation would involve and how a properly installed system should be approached.

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I'm buying a house with a radon result of 9.0. My parents think I'm crazy. Am I making a mistake?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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My real estate real-estate professional says a radon mitigation repair allowance is "standard practice" but I've never heard of it. Is that true in Illinois?

For the radon side, focus on a reliable current reading and a clear mitigation path if the level is elevated. Real-estate paperwork, repair allowances, rental responsibilities, and closing decisions should be handled by the people managing the transaction. Bill can help with the practical radon part: what the number means, whether mitigation makes sense, and what a proper system would involve. If the reading is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home. Between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L, EPA says to consider mitigation, especially if the space is used often.

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Related Help

Questions are fine too. Call or text Bill, or send your address and contact info, and he will take it from there.

Reviewed by Bill Dahlstrom, Illinois radon mitigation license RNM2018212.