RADON

Detecting and Addressing Radon Contamination in the Home Many homeowners are increasingly concerned about the possible presence of radon in their homes – and with good reason. You can’t see, smell, or taste radon, but it is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers in North America, and it could be present at a dangerous level in your home. The good news is that if radon is detected, steps can be taken to remedy the problem. January has been designated National Radon Action Month; learn the facts and take action. WHAT IS THE SOURCE OF RADON? Radon is naturally occurring odorless, colorless, radioactive gas that is formed by the ongoing decay of uranium in soil, rocks, sediments, and even well or ground water. While radon that escapes into the atmosphere is not harmful, dangerously high concentrations can build up indoors, exposing residents to possible health risks. HOW DOES RADON ENTER THE HOME? Radon gas can migrate into the home in several ways. Openings or cracks in basement walls or floors are common avenues. Sumps, basement drains, and spaces between gas or water fittings can also allow radon into the structure. HOW CAN MY CLIENTS FIND OUT ABOUT RADON IN A HOME THEY ARE CONSIDERING FOR PURCHASE? A Pillar To Post Home Inspector can conduct a Radon test as either part of the home inspection process or on its own. An inspector will set up the testing equipment and report on the results once the proper measurement procedure is complete. If an elevated level of radon is detected, steps can be taken to lessen the concentration inside the home. REDUCING THE LEVELS OF RADON IN THE HOME Radon mitigation methods can include sealing likely entry points, improving ventilation, and a process called soil depressurization, which vents air from the house back into the surrounding soil, reducing the level of radon that can enter the home. Professional mitigation services can provide recommendations for a home’s specific conditions. For more information about home inspection and radon testing, please call our office.

 

Tom Capuano And Our Entire Service Team of Professional Certified Inspectors, State Licensed Radon Testers and Customer Service Staff     Proudly Serving You and Your Clients For Over 10 years Home Inspections * Termite Inspections * Radon Tests * Mold Screen Testing     Call us or visit our web site to schedule an inspection anytime! Click to visit our web site!     513-771-6689

Ohio Real Estate Commission issues warning

Warning from the Ohio Real Estate Commission: Never Provide a Lock-Box Code to a Potential Buyer

The Ohio Real Estate Commission considers providing a potential buyer with a lock-box code and allowing them to view a property unattended a serious offense. In fact, the Commission recently ordered a licensee to serve a 10-day suspension, pay a $600 civil penalty, and complete three hours of education in ethics for providing a lock-box code to a client which resulted in the client’s unsupervised entry into the property.

A licensed real estate agent should always be present at showings and should never provide a lock-box code to a potential buyer. If you are unable to attend a previously-scheduled showing, you should have another licensed agent attend on your behalf or simply explain the situation to your client and reschedule the showing.