Radon gas is a silent threat you might not know about
Radon gas is present in varying amounts throughout BC and it could be affecting your health.
It’s an odourless, colourless, and tasteless radioactive gas that results from the breakdown of uranium in the soil. It can be inhaled, damage lung cells, and possibly lead to cancer. Radon gas exposure is estimated to cause over 3,000 lung cancer deaths in Canada each year.
When you’re outside it’s harmless because it’s diluted by the open environment. Inside spaces like your home, however, it is more dangerous because it can become concentrated.
Although radon can be dangerous, it’s easy and inexpensive to eliminate. Radon reduction often takes just one day and can effectively reduce radon levels in most homes by more than 80 per cent.
What if I’m buying or selling a home?
There are no strict legal requirements for sellers to test their home for radon. However, if a seller knows radon is a problem, they have a duty to inform potential buyers of the material latent defect. This would be reported on the Property Disclosure Statement.
Read this radon FAQ for more information.
What can I do?
To learn more, visit www.radonkills.ca/bc
To order a test kit, visit https://thelungassociationbc.squarespace.com
To find a certified radon expert, visit https://c-nrpp.ca/find-a-professional