Some areas in the Homefinders.com market area, which includes real estate within approximately 70 miles of Washington, D.C.

Some areas are known to have shown high radon readings over time and some, particularly those areas in the south or east of Washington, have not shown high radon readings. However, radon testing is low in cost and the remediation is simple and inexpensive.

Areas to the north and west of Washington, D.C. often have very high radon readings and if a buyer wishes to have the home tested as a condition of the Contract of Sale, it can be done in about 4 days. Readings of over 4 picoCuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher should have remediation prior to or shortly following settlement. If the home seller declines to install radon remediation equipment, this is seldom a reason to cancel a contract. The equipment to control high radon readings costs approx. $850 to $1,200.

Radon occurs naturally in many parts of the country and high readings are often found in our market area in Frederick County, Washington County and western Baltimore County. Readings of over 4 pCi/L are often found in Fairfax, Loudoun Counties in Northern Virginia and in Montgomery and Prince George's County in Maryland.

More information may be found on the EPA web site.

1. Why Do You Need to Test for Radon?

a. Radon Has Been Found In Homes All Over the U.S.

Radon is a radioactive gas that has been found in homes all over the United States. It comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water and gets into the air you breathe. Radon typically moves up through the ground to the air above and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Radon can also enter your home through well water. Your home can trap radon inside.

Any home can have a radon problem. This means new and old homes, well-sealed and drafty homes, and homes with or without basements. In fact, you and your family are most likely to get your greatest radiation exposure at home. That is where you spend most of your time.

Nearly 1 out of every 15 homes in the United States is estimated to have an elevated radon level (4 pCi/L or more). Elevated levels of radon gas have been found in homes in your state.

Maryland Radon Map

Virginia Radon Map

Source:  http://www.epa.gov/radon/zonemap/maryland.htm