The EPA offers a brochure about radongas that has been summarized here for faster reading. The complete brochure can be read on the Environmental Protection Agency web site.
Radon gas is not uncommon in the ground, granite and water. It moves naturally into the air. A simple venting system is the easiestmost normal method of fixing a radon concentration.
Do you have to test for radon gas Sure, why not. But, don't make it mre of a concern than other parts of the condition. It may be in this property like termites are in some properties. The tests don't cost much, and treatment is simple if you find a higher than acceptable level. There is a map available to see if you are in an "active area".
Should I buy a house with evidence of radon? You are the only one who can decide that. But, look at the results of a test the way you do for every other part of your property inspection. For example, if there are wood destroying bugs that can be eliminated, will you still invest in the property? And even a new roof is more expensive to replace than most other repairs.
Short-term tests which are placed in your home for two days to 90 days, depending on the device, give the fastest results. "Charcoal canisters," "alpha track," "electret ion chamber," "continuous monitors," and "charcoal liquid scintillation"detectors are most commonly used for simple tests. Simple tests are more often used to find out what the level of radon is at a given time, and less useful in finding year-round average radon level. If you need results quickly, two simple type tests a week apart will give good information. Testing once is the most common practice, except in areas already known for radon.
Longer tests can take 3 months, and will give more information about the year-round average level of saturation.
The EPA accepted measureable level is less than 4 pCi/L (picoCuries per liter of air). Just read your report that your company gives you to see what the level is in your property.
Other facts:
Smoking increases the problems caused by radon.
About 0.4 pCi/L is normally found in the outside air in any location.
Sometimes radon is found in water from a well, but this is not considered to be a hazzard.
States with new laws or regulations about radon gas: New York, New Jersey
