Douglas County is classified by the EPA as Radon Zone 1, the highest risk category. A Lawrence Douglas County Health Department report in 2013 said about one in three homes tested in the county was above the EPA action level of 4 pCi/L. The EPA also notes that elevated levels turn up in all zones, so every home should be tested. See Douglas County radon levels for the latest public test data.
No level of radon is considered completely risk free. The EPA recommends fixing a home at 4 pCi/L or higher and says to consider fixing it between 2 and 4 pCi/L.
Yes. Radon levels depend on the soil and how the home interacts with it, not on the age of the house. New homes can have high levels too.
Kansas requires a current certification from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to perform radon testing or mitigation work as a service. Ask any professional for proof of current certification.
Short term tests typically run 2 to 7 days. Results come back after the device is analyzed or read.
Yes. A certified professional can install a radon reduction system, commonly a sub slab depressurization system, that vents radon from under the home to outdoors. See radon mitigation in Lawrence.
Buyers can request a radon test during the inspection period. Sellers can test before listing so a high result can be addressed early rather than negotiated under deadline. Learn how testing works or read our guide to radon when buying or selling a home.