What to Know About Radon Testing in Illinois

What to Know About Radon Testing in Illinois
By City Home Inspectors

☢️ You can’t see it, smell it, or taste it—but radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., and Chicagoland homes are at risk.

If you’re buying, selling, or living in a home in Illinois, here’s what you need to know about radon—and why a professional test could protect your health and your investment.

🧠 What Is Radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium in soil and rock breaks down. It seeps into homes through:

• Cracks in foundations or slabs

• Sump pumps or crawlspaces

• Gaps around pipes or construction joints

Once inside, radon can build up to dangerous levels—especially in basements and lower-level living areas.

📍 Why It’s a Big Deal in Illinois

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and EPA both recommend radon testing for all homes—especially during real estate transactions.

Why?

• Over 40% of Illinois homes have radon levels above the EPA action level (4.0 pCi/L)

• Cook, Lake, DuPage, Will, and McHenry counties frequently show elevated readings

• Newer, more energy-efficient homes are often more airtight, trapping radon inside

🔍 What Happens During a Radon Test?

At City Home Inspectors, we:

• Use continuous electronic monitors to track radon over a 48-hour period

• Place monitors in the lowest livable area of the home

• Provide a detailed, time-stamped report of the average radon level

• Explain whether mitigation is recommended—and what steps to take next

✅ Why Testing Matters

• It’s affordable—and required in many Illinois real estate transactions

• High levels can be mitigated with a ventilation system

• Buyers gain peace of mind, and sellers can avoid last-minute surprises

Radon mitigation may even increase resale value with the right documentation

🎯 Don’t leave it to chance. Protect your family—and your deal—with a reliable radon test.

📅 Add radon testing to your inspection at www.cityhomeinspectors.com