Frequently Asked Questions

⇒  What is Radon?

Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless radioactive gas produced by the natural decay of uranium found in soil, rock, and water. It’s completely undetectable to human senses but can accumulate to dangerous levels inside homes and buildings.

Health Risk: Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for approximately 21,000 deaths annually. It affects both smokers and non-smokers, though smokers face significantly higher risk.

⇒  Why Should I Test for Radon?

You Cannot Detect Radon Without Testing. Since radon has no smell, taste, or color, professional testing is the only way to know if your family is at risk.

Chicagoland is High-Risk: Approximately 50-60% of homes in the greater Chicago area exceed the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L due to our regional geology and glacial soil deposits.

Peace of Mind: Testing provides either confirmation that your family is safe or actionable information to protect their health through proven mitigation methods.

⇒  How Does Radon Enter My Home?

Radon gas moves through soil and enters homes through:

• Foundation cracks and gaps
• Floor drains and sump pits
• Gaps around pipes and wires
• Crawl spaces and basement floors
• Well water (less common but possible)

Important: All foundation types can have radon problems. New and old homes, expensive and modest homes – none are immune to radon entry.

⇒  What Are Safe Radon Levels?

EPA Action Levels:

• Below 2.0 pCi/L: Low risk, no action typically needed
• 2.0-3.9 pCi/L: Consider mitigation, especially for long-term occupancy
• 4.0+ pCi/L: EPA recommends mitigation within two years
• 10.0+ pCi/L: Take immediate action; consider temporary relocation during mitigation

Important: There is no “safe” level of radon. The EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L is a practical guideline, not a health-based threshold.

⇒  How Long Does Radon Testing Take?

Standard Testing Period: 48 hours minimum for real estate transactions, though longer tests provide more accurate long-term averages.

Closed-House Conditions Required: Windows and doors must remain closed (except for normal entry/exit) for 12 hours before and throughout the entire test period.

Results Timeline: Comprehensive written report within 24 hours.

⇒  What Equipment Do You Use?

We use NRPP-approved continuous radon monitors that provide:

• Hourly radon level tracking throughout the test period
• Environmental monitoring (temperature, humidity, barometric pressure)
• Tamper detection to ensure test validity
• Immediate results with no lab processing delays

Why Continuous Monitors vs. Charcoal Canisters:

• More accurate and detailed data
• Built-in quality control features
• Faster results
• Shows radon level patterns and fluctuations

⇒  How Much Does Radon Testing Cost?

Contact us for current pricing and package options.

What’s Included:

• Professional device placement and retrieval
• 48+ hour continuous monitoring
• Environmental condition validation
• Comprehensive written report with graphs and analysis
• Results consultation and guidance

Real Estate Transactions: Expedited service available with same-day preliminary results.

⇒  What If My Home Has High Radon Levels?

Don’t Panic. Elevated radon is a common, solvable problem.

Immediate Steps:

• Increase ventilation in lower levels temporarily
• Contact certified mitigation contractors for estimates
• Continue normal occupancy while planning mitigation
• Avoid basement sleeping areas if levels are very high (10+ pCi/L)

Mitigation Success: Professional radon mitigation systems reduce levels by 90%+ in most cases, often achieving readings below 1.0 pCi/L.

⇒  How Often Should I Test for Radon?

EPA Recommendations:

• Every 2 years for ongoing monitoring
• After any foundation work or major renovations
• Before and after mitigation system installation
• When buying/selling a home

Best Testing Time: During heating season (October through April) when homes are closed up and readings are typically highest.

⇒  Can I Do Radon Testing Myself?

DIY Test Kits Available but have significant limitations:

• No professional oversight of placement and conditions
• Charcoal canisters provide only single average reading
• No quality control validation
• Mail-in processing delays results
• No expert interpretation or guidance

Professional Testing Advantages:

• Proper placement ensuring accurate results
• Quality assurance throughout test period
• Immediate results and expert interpretation
• Follow-up support and mitigation coordination

⇒  Is Radon Testing Required for Real Estate?

Illinois Requirements:

• Testing not mandatory but highly recommended
• Disclosure required if testing has been performed
• Buyer’s right to test during inspection period
• Negotiation tool for mitigation costs or price adjustments

Real Estate Benefits:

• Buyer confidence in property safety
• Seller transparency demonstrating home care
• Faster transactions when issues are identified and addressed upfront

⇒  Why Choose Professional Radon Testing?

Expertise Matters:

• NRPP certification ensures proper testing protocols
• Illinois state licensing provides regulatory oversight
• Quality equipment delivers accurate, detailed results
• Professional interpretation helps you understand findings

Peace of Mind: Professional testing provides confidence in results and clear guidance for protecting your family’s health.

⇒  How Do I Schedule Testing?

Easy Scheduling:

• Call, text or email to discuss your testing needs
• Same-day scheduling often available
• Flexible timing including evenings and weekends
• Real estate transaction coordination

Contact Checkpoint Radon Service:

• Phone: (312) 600-8455
• Email: jim@checkpointradon.com
• Service Area: Greater Chicagoland