Champia Shares Why You Should Test for Radon in Atlanta

    NORCROSS, GA, August 12, 2013 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Radon is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas that is produced by the decay of uranium in soil and water. It can be hazardous when found in highly-concentrated areas in homes and other buildings. Atlanta home inspectors, Champia Real Estate Inspections, discuss why it is essential to know the level of radon in your home.

Why is Radon Dangerous?
Statistics reported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) indicate that radon is the leading cause of lung cancer around the world aside from smoking. The chances of smokers contracting lung cancer from radon are significantly higher than for non-smokers because of the combined impact of the two.

Radon Levels in Atlanta and Throughout Georgia
Nearly one out of every 15 homes in this country has an elevated radon level. You cannot predict radon levels based on local measurements or even on levels in neighboring homes. Homes that are next to each other can have different radon levels.

Levels of radon in Atlanta are particularly high. According to the EPA, Fulton, Cobb, Gwinnett, and DeKalb counties around Atlanta have a predicted average indoor radon level in the elevated or "red zone" level with a predicted average indoor radon screening level greater than 4 pCi/L--higher than any other area in the state.

When and How Often Should You Test for Radon?
You should definitely have a home you are considering purchasing tested. However, there are a number of times when testing is warranted. Radon levels can change with the seasons. That's why some experts recommend testing seasonally. The EPA also recommends testing before you do any construction so that if there is a problem, you can use radon-resistant techniques.

Getting a Qualified Radon Tester
There are low-cost "do-it-yourself" radon test kits available online and in hardware stores. If you are buying a home, however, you should hire a qualified radon tester. Do not just accept the seller's test. Radon testing in Atlanta, GA should be done by qualified professionals. Champia's inspectors are certified with the highest industry standard certifications, including American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), International Code Council (ICC), and National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP).

What to Do if High Radon Levels are Found
If elevated levels are found during the inspection, the EPA recommends that it be mitigated. The buyer should request that the seller mitigate to below the necessary threshold. The cost of making repairs to reduce radon levels depends on how the home was built among other factors.

Bill Compton, President and CEO of Champia Real Estate Inspections says, "Our qualified inspectors can do a radon test along with the home inspection and other inspections, including termite and mold inspections. It will allow you the chance to work out the cost of fixing it with the seller, just as with any other repairs that are needed. Most importantly, with Atlanta radon levels being so high, it will give you peace of mind for your family and yourself."

For more information on Champia's services, and to schedule testing and an Atlanta home inspection, visit http://champia.com/.

About Champia:
Champia Real Estate Inspections has been providing comprehensive home inspections in Atlanta and the surrounding area since 1987. Their services are available 24/7 and cover new properties to older historic properties. They also involve a range of services from radon testing to termite inspections.

For more information, visit http://champia.com/.

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