Buying or selling in Hamilton or Burlington? Radon is an invisible gas that buyers increasingly ask about, especially in homes with basements or additions. The good news: testing is straightforward and fixes are well-understood. Here’s how to navigate radon like a pro.
What is radon and why does it matter?
Radon is a colourless, odourless gas that can accumulate indoors. Health Canada sets the action guideline at 200 Bq/m³; levels at or above that should be reduced. There’s no “safe” level, so lower is better.
How to test, step-by-step
- Choose DIY or a measurement professional.
- Run a long-term test for at least 3 months (ideally during the heating season) to capture a reliable average.
- Place the device on the lowest lived-in level, away from drafts and exterior doors.
Why long-term? Radon fluctuates daily and seasonally; 91+ days smooths out spikes and dips.
What the numbers mean
- Under 200 Bq/m³: No action required, though lowering levels is still beneficial.
- 200–600 Bq/m³: Plan mitigation; Health-focused guidance suggests doing so within two years.
- Over 600 Bq/m³: Mitigate within a year.
Fixing high radon: common methods and costs
The most common solution is active soil depressurization (a small fan and pipe system that vents soil gas outside). Typical Canadian installations run about $2,000–$3,000, plus modest electricity for the fan. Hire a C-NRPP–certified professional for design and installation.
Find certified pros via the national C-NRPP directory.
Real-estate angles: how to handle radon in offers
- Sellers: Testing before listing reduces surprises. If a result comes back high, mitigation can be completed and documented with a post-mitigation test.
- Buyers: If no long-term result exists, consider a holdback or price credit tied to a post-closing test and mitigation if the level is ≥200 Bq/m³.
- Everyone: Keep receipts, device serial numbers, and final post-mitigation readings with your home file.
Quick checklist
- Long-term test: 3–12 months.
- Action level: 200 Bq/m³.
- Typical mitigation: ASD, $2k–$3k.
- Use C-NRPP certified professionals.
