Radon Testing

Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that forms naturally in soil and rock. It can enter homes through cracks and openings in foundations, where it can build up over time. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon increases the risk of lung cancer — in fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. after smoking.

Yes, it can be. While some parts of Tennessee have higher radon potential than others, radon has been found in homes throughout West Tennessee — even in areas not considered “high risk.” Because radon levels vary from house to house, the only way to know your home’s radon level is to test for it.

We use professional-grade digital radon monitors that record continuous readings over a 48-hour period. The devices track hourly fluctuations and provide a precise average concentration level, measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). All testing is conducted according to EPA and IAC2 standards for accuracy and reliability.

A standard short-term test takes 48 hours, followed by immediate electronic results. We provide a detailed report showing average and hourly readings, along with recommended next steps if levels exceed EPA action guidelines.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends taking corrective action if your home’s radon level is 4.0 pCi/L or higher. However, even lower levels can still pose some risk — especially with long-term exposure — so mitigation may still be advisable.

If elevated radon is detected, we’ll explain your results clearly and recommend contacting a certified radon mitigation professional. They can install systems that vent radon safely out of your home and reduce levels to within EPA guidelines. After mitigation, a follow-up test should always be performed to confirm the system’s effectiveness.

Radon testing is recommended for every real estate transaction, as part of your home inspection, and every 2–5 years afterward — especially if you’ve remodeled, added onto your home, or made changes to the HVAC or foundation.

Yes — even brand-new homes can test high for radon. Radon enters through soil and foundation openings, so construction age doesn’t matter as much as the soil composition and air pressure beneath the structure. In some cases, new homes can trap radon more effectively because they’re built tighter and more energy-efficient. The only way to know your home’s levels for sure is to test.

They can. Many West Tennessee homes have vented crawlspaces, and while ventilation helps reduce radon buildup, it doesn’t always eliminate it. Poor ventilation, open soil, or exposed foundation cracks can allow radon to accumulate under the home.

Factors like soil type, moisture levels, and how well the crawlspace is sealed all play a role. Our inspectors can help you understand how your home’s foundation design may impact radon movement and what can be done to reduce it.

For accurate readings, the home must remain under “closed-house conditions” during testing — that means keeping windows and exterior doors closed except for normal entry and exit. Open windows or heavy ventilation can cause false low readings, making results unreliable. Don’t worry — we’ll give clear instructions before and during your test to ensure accurate results.

At-home kits can provide basic information but often lack precision. Professional testing ensures accurate, lab-certified results that are recognized for real estate and health purposes.

Yes, and that’s what most clients prefer. Combining radon testing with your home inspection saves time and ensures results are ready before closing. We’ll place the radon monitors at the beginning of your inspection and retrieve them after 48 hours, providing a complete, detailed report along with your inspection findings.