Protect Your Family: Why Every Homeowner Should Test for Radon Today

By Doug Cary

Doug Cary has been selling real estate in Davis County since 2005. He is a 2nd generation top producing Real Estate Agent.

Are you aware of the hidden dangers that could be lurking in your home? A recent Lehi, Utah story highlights a severe health risk many homeowners overlook—radon exposure. A woman in Lehi, who had never smoked, was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer. Her oncologist’s first question was whether she had ever tested her home for radon. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., yet many people are unaware of its dangers.

After her diagnosis, the woman tested her home and discovered radon levels that were 10 times higher than the recommended safe limit. This finding spurred widespread concern, leading 11,000 others in her community to test their homes. More than 50% of those tests revealed unhealthy levels of radon. This isn’t just a local issue; Utah, particularly in areas like Beaver and Centerville, has some of the highest radon levels, with over 33% of homes testing high. Here are three key points you need to know about radon in Utah:

1. Understand the Risk of Radon in Your Home. Radon is a radioactive gas that forms underground as rocks and minerals break down. It seeps into homes through tiny cracks and fissures in the foundation. While radon is invisible and odorless, its effects on health can be devastating. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. Testing your home, no matter where you live, is essential.

2. Testing and Mitigation Are Essential. Testing your home for radon is simple and affordable. In Utah, free test kits are available through local services, making checking your home’s radon levels easy. If elevated radon levels are detected, mitigation systems can be installed to reduce the gas to safe levels. These systems typically cost $1,800 to $2,000. The process involves drilling a hole in your basement’s concrete slab and installing a system that pulls radon from beneath the home, venting it safely above the roofline.

3. Take Action to Protect Your Family. I highly encourage every homeowner to test their home for radon. Seven years ago, I tested my basement and continued monitoring the levels before finishing it. Testing and mitigating radon is a proactive step that can protect your family’s health. You can order a free radon test kit from Utah Radon Services for those in Utah.

Protecting your home from radon isn’t just about safeguarding property—it’s about protecting lives. By testing and installing a mitigation system, if necessary, you can significantly reduce the risk of lung cancer and ensure a healthier environment for your family. Call me at (801) 450-0997 if you want a one-on-one talk. I’ll willingly answer your queries.