Properteco Logo

Speak to our team for advice

0800 046 6193

Protecting your family’s health: the importance of radon testing

When it comes to ensuring a safe and healthy home environment, many of us take essential steps like installing carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, smoke alarms, and promoting healthy eating and regular exercise.

However, one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked is testing for radon. This invisible, odourless gas can pose significant health risks, making it essential for every homeowner to understand its dangers and the importance of testing.

As we prepare to mark UK Radon Awareness Week (4th – 11th November 2024), PropertECO is urging for more awareness to be built around the ease of testing and calling on families and loved ones to spread the word around the importance of testing for radon and how it can protect your family’s health. 

 

What is radon? 

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It can seep into homes through the floor, accumulating to dangerous levels without the occupants being aware. Exposure to radon gas is a leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers and is responsible for over 1100 deaths in the UK every year.

 

Have you checked for radon?

If you have checked for radon in your house then well done, as only 1 in 10 households in the UK have done so. According to research from Go.Compare that was conducted earlier this year, just 1 in 5 UK residents are aware of the risks associated with radon, and 90% of UK households have never checked for it.

The key reason this is so troubling is because the UK Health Security Agency acknowledges that tens of thousands of UK homes contain levels of radon that can be harmful to health, and with so many homes still untested, the real figure may be much higher.   

To reduce the number of avoidable lung cancer deaths from radon exposure each year, more homes need to be tested, and action taken when high concentrations are found. The first step to achieving this is to increase awareness.  

 

Why testing for radon is essential 

  1. Protect your family’s health

Just as we install smoke alarms to alert us to fire hazards and CO detectors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, testing for radon is a proactive step in safeguarding your family’s health. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer. Testing your home is the only way to know if radon is present and at what levels. 

  1. It’s simple and affordable

Radon testing is a straightforward process. There are a range of tests available providing a host of different options to best suit you, your living space and your budget. Testing kits are widely available online, and they are relatively inexpensive, just ensure you always purchase from a reputable and expert supplier.  

  1. Peace of mind

Knowing that your home is safe from radon provides peace of mind. Just as you encourage healthy eating and exercise for overall well-being, testing for radon is an integral part of maintaining a healthy home environment. If radon levels are elevated, you can take immediate action to mitigate the risk. 

  1. It’s part of home maintenance

Like regular checks on your smoke alarms and CO detectors, radon testing should be a part of your routine home maintenance. Experts recommend you test for radon every two years, especially if you’ve made changes to your home, such as renovations or if you’ve moved to a new house. Keeping tabs on radon levels ensures ongoing protection for your family. 

  1. Asset value

If you want to sell your home, questions about radon will be asked by the prospective buyer’s surveyor and solicitor. In many instances, the buyer will be recommended to undertake a radon test. By having a radon test results report in advance, you can avoid any delays to the transaction, or having to enter price negotiations based on the property hypothetically being affected by radon. 

 

How to test for radon 

Testing for radon is simple and can be done in a few steps:

You can either order a test kit online which comes with simple to follow instructions, or if you manage a portfolio of properties, a PropertECO radon expert can visit and do it for you. At PropertECO, we offer quick indicative 10-day radon test kits and three month comprehensive radon test kits that start at £39.60. Why not have a browse of our radon shop here 

 

Mitigating radon levels 

If testing reveals high radon levels, don’t panic. There are effective mitigation strategies available: 

  • Install a radon mitigation system: a professionally designed and installed solution that involves redirecting radon from the ground and venting it away from the building, preventing it from entering your home. 
  • Seal cracks and openings: ensure that any cracks in your foundation or openings around pipes are sealed properly. 
  • Improve ventilation: increasing airflow in your home can help reduce radon levels. 

Specialist radon companies such as PropertECO provide expert advice on how best to lower radon levels and protect your family’s exposure to the gas. 

 

Testing for radon is just as vital as other health and safety measures we take at home. By including radon testing in your home maintenance routine, you protect your family from a silent yet dangerous threat. Just as you prioritise smoke alarms, CO detectors, healthy eating, and exercise, make radon testing a part of your family’s health strategy. Taking these steps can ensure a safer, healthier home for you and your loved ones. 

By using the discount code ‘RAW2024’, throughout Radon Awareness Week (4th – 11th November) you can purchase radon testing equipment and receive a £5 discount on selected products available at www.radonshop.co.uk or if you’re worried about radon then call us on 0800 046 6193.  

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *