Radon is one of the most common, and most overlooked, issues we find during home inspections. It's a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas, so the only way to know if a home has elevated levels is to test for it. And in Illinois, that's not a small concern.
Why Radon Matters
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It seeps into homes through foundation cracks, sump pits, and other openings, where it can build up to dangerous concentrations.
It's the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and the leading cause among non-smokers. Large portions of Illinois are classified as high-radon zones, which makes testing especially important here. McHenry, Cook, DuPage and Lake counties sit in EPA Radon Zone 2, and Kane County, which includes Elgin, is Zone 1, the highest predicted tier in the country.
How Radon Testing Works
At At Ease Inspections, radon testing uses continuous radon monitoring over the standard 48-hour test period, with:
- Closed-house conditions, the protocol used for real estate transactions
- Results measured against the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L
- A report that explains your results in plain language
The monitor runs for a 48-hour testing period in the lowest livable level of the home. As an IAC2-certified inspector, I follow strict testing protocols so your results are reliable and defensible.
Understanding Your Results
Radon is measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L). The EPA recommends taking action at 4.0 pCi/L or higher. After the test completes, we generate your detailed report and send it directly to you, often within about an hour of completion.
If your levels come back elevated, don't panic. Radon is very manageable. A qualified mitigation contractor can install a system that vents the gas safely outside, typically bringing levels well below the action threshold. And because results can often be negotiated during your purchase, identifying a problem early can save you money and protect your family.
Should You Test?
If you're buying a home in the Northwest suburbs, the answer is almost always yes, especially given Illinois' radon risk. It's an affordable step that delivers real peace of mind.
Want radon testing with your inspection? Schedule with At Ease Inspections, serving Cary, Algonquin, Crystal Lake, Huntley and the rest of Chicago’s Northwest suburbs.