Homebuyers need to be aware of radon and the potential effects it could have, both in respect of health and in the investment you are making in your new property.
Radon is a radioactive gas that is colourless, odourless and widespread across the country. It occurs because of the radioactive decay of naturally occurring uranium in the ground. It is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the UK, with around 21,000 deaths attributed to it each year.
How are homes affected by radon?
Radon is given off by uranium in the ground below properties and seeps into homes through the floor. Different areas of the UK have different levels of radon emissions, depending on the rock formations. For example, in the southwest where there is more granite, there can be higher levels of radon in certain places.
How do I find out whether my property is particularly affected by radon?
Radon tests can be carried out if you are thinking of buying a property that is in a known radon area. You can also test your own property to find out the levels of radon.
A 10-day radon test can be done during the property purchase process. Where there is no urgency, a three-month test is recommended to check radon levels over a longer period.
Your solicitor will be able to raise enquiries relating to radon if your potential house purchase is in an area that is particularly affected by radon, to include requesting the results of any tests that have been carried out in the past and details of any remedial works.
What do I do if my home is affected by radon?
If your property has higher levels of radon than are considered safe, you are advised to take action to reduce this. You should deal with contractors who specialise in radon issues to ensure that the work you have carried out will be effective.
A radon sump combined with a fan is often used to reduce radon levels and works best where the floor is solid.
Ventilation is sometimes used, including where there is a space beneath the floor that air can be pumped into or extracted from. Whole house ventilation can be effective for lower levels of radon, where air is moved into the home, usually via the roof space. Sealing off some areas may also be recommended, although by itself this is not generally effective enough to reduce higher amounts of radon to a safe level.
Buying a property affected by radon
If the property you want to buy is affected by radon and remedial works will be needed to make it safe, it is open to you to negotiate the price to take into account the cost of the work to be carried out.
Contact us
If you would like to speak to one of our expert property lawyers, ring us on 0333 305 5189 or email us at info@lpropertylawyers.co.uk
