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
