About Radon
Radon is an odorless, invisible, and radioactive gas that is naturally released from rocks, soil, and water. Radon can get trapped inside homes and build up to unsafe levels.
Exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. This exposure contributes to roughly 21,000 cases of lung cancer annually in the United States, including almost 700 cases per year in Virginia.
In Virginia, high radon test results have been found in every county.
Testing for Radon
The only way to know if your home has unsafe levels of radon is to test for it.
Testing your home for radon is important to ensuring you and your family’s health.
Key times to test your home’s radon levels are:
- If your home’s radon levels are unknown
- If you’re preparing to buy or sell
- Before and after any renovations
- Before spending more time in the basement or lower level (like converting a basement to a bedroom or office)
Getting a Test Kit
You can purchase a test kit at a local hardware store. Make sure your test kit is approved by the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP), or the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB). Follow test kit instructions carefully.
Virginia residents are eligible to order a test kit from VDH for the cost of $4 for shipping. They are available until supplies run out.