Radon Awareness for Reno–Sparks Homeowners

January is National Radon Action Month, and for homeowners and buyers in the Reno–Sparks–Truckee Meadows area, radon is something worth paying attention to.

Because of our local geology and proximity to the mountains, radon is more common in Northern Nevada than many people expect. It’s odorless, tasteless, and invisible—but it’s also the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, right behind smoking. If you’re buying or selling a home, radon testing is something we often recommend as part of the inspection process. It’s simple, affordable, and can provide valuable peace of mind.

Check out our YouTube Video Highlighting Radon Testing

Understanding the Threat

Radon is a radioactive gas that forms naturally when uranium in soil and rock breaks down. It enters buildings through cracks and openings in foundations, becoming trapped and accumulating to dangerous levels. Prolonged exposure to high radon levels is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and is responsible for thousands of deaths each year. Testing is the only way to know if your home has elevated radon levels. 

One of the best local resources for homeowners is the University of Nevada, Reno Cooperative Extension, which provides radon education and access to test kits. You can visit their website via the links below to learn more important information about radon gas and its risks in our area. 

How Radon Gas Can Enter Your Home | Extension | University of Nevada, Reno

Potential of Radon Exposure in Washoe County-Reno/Sparks | Extension | University of Nevada, Reno 

How and Where to Get a Radon Test Kit | Extension | University of Nevada, Reno

Health Risks

Radon exposure has been linked to lung cancer, particularly in those who spend a significant amount of time indoors. By testing for radon, homeowners can assess the levels present in their homes and take appropriate measures to reduce exposure. This is especially crucial if you have children, elderly family members, or individuals with respiratory conditions, as they may be more vulnerable to the harmful effects of radon.

Legal and Real Estate Considerations

In Nevada, radon testing is not currently required but we strongly encourage all homeowners to take this proactive step to protect themselves and their loved ones. If you are considering selling your home, conducting a radon test can provide potential buyers with peace of mind. Additionally, if high radon levels are discovered, addressing the issue before listing your home can prevent complications during the selling process. 

Cost-Effective Prevention

Testing for radon is a simple and cost-effective process. Radon test kits are readily available and can be obtained from local health departments, home improvement stores, or online retailers. These kits are easy to use and typically involve leaving the detector in a specific area of your home for a specified period. If elevated levels are detected, mitigation strategies can be implemented, which range from sealing cracks to installing a radon mitigation system. The costs associated with these preventive measures are far lower than the potential healthcare expenses resulting from long-term radon exposure.

Peace of Mind