Radon is a colourless and odourless radioactive gas which affects many parts of the UK and stems from earth materials such as rocks and soil. Cornwall is an area which overall, is one of the most affected by radon gas in the UK and in many areas, the maximum radon potential is greater than 30%.

Unfortunately, radon gas levels cannot be detected as part of a pre-purchase survey when buying a property due to it’s colourless and odourless nature. This is also because radon gas levels can fluctuate over time meaning that if a radon gas recording one day, the next it could vary depending on factors such as the weather. It is therefore typically not recommended to engage any methods of short term testing. Homeowners can order radon test packs which includes monitors/instruments which are placed around the home and after the required period (typically a minimum of three months), the instruments are posted off to a laboratory to analyse.

www.ukradon.org offers a wide range of information in respect of radon gas for homeowners and purchasers. As well as including an interactive map published by the UK Health Security Agency to check typical radon data in a specific area, there is a variety of information in terms of radon testing, possible radon remedial/reduction measures if levels are found to be too high and more.

But what are the risks with radon gas?

Radon gas can pose a risk to health of occupants depending on the levels of radon gas inside the home. There are links between exposure to radon gas and lung cancer so it is important to check the levels of radon gas inside the property you are buying/inhabiting. If the radon gas levels are deemed to be within acceptable limits and present a low or minimal risk to occupants, then no action may be required however, if levels are deemed to be too high or present a high risk of exposure, action to reduce radon gas levels may need to be considered.

Many modern properties are constructed to incorporate radon gas reduction/protection measures in where being constructed in high risk/high level areas as part of Building Regulations however, older properties may not incorporate any reduction/protection measures unless provided by homeowners. Properties with poor ventilation can also increase exposure and radon gas levels as radon gas.

So, you’re buying a property but do not have three months or more to consider radon gas testing?

Whilst Building Surveyors cannot carry out any testing for you as part of a survey, it may be worth seeking their advice. If the property you are purchasing is in an area which poses a high risk in terms of radon levels, you may consider enquiring with the seller/vendor via your solicitors as to whether the property has ever been tested for radon gas and if they have the results of such testing. If no information is available and you are concerned about radon gas but do not want to wait months to have testing carried out before purchasing (you would also likely need the owner’s permission whilst they still own the property), your solicitor may advise you to consider a radon bond/retention which is where a sum of money is held back from the purchase and following purchase and radon testing, if levels are found to be beyond acceptable limits and action needed, then the sum of money held back can be used by the new owners to carry out works to reduce radon gas levels, typically with any surplus funds (if applicable) then paid to the seller. If levels upon testing are deemed to be acceptable, then the sum of money held back is given to the seller. Your solicitors should be able to provide further advice in this respect.