Two Ways to Test for Radon 

Short-term Testing:   This type of test remains in the home for usually 2 to 90 days depending on the kit purchased. The test container is placed in the lowest lived-in level of the home for the recommended length of time, then sealed and returned to the company for analysis.

Specific instructions for placement and timing of the test are included with the test kit, so be sure to read and follow them carefully. The cost of the kit generally includes the sample collection container and the analysis.

Long-term Testing:   These tests remain in the home for more than 90 days, and will give a reading that is closer to the home's year-round average radon level.

You can order both short- and long-term radon test kits from the National Safety Council.

            

Radon Test Results:   What do they mean?

[Note: Radon gas is measured in “picocuries per liter of air” or pCi/L.]

If the short-term test result is 4 pCi/L or higher, you should confirm this by either:   

•  a long-term test,   or
•  another short-term test.

If the long-term test or the average of the 2 short-term tests is 4 pCi/L or higher, some action should be taken to fix the home.

You may even consider mitigating your home if the results are between 2 and 4 pCi/L.  There is no "safe" level of radon exposure.  (The average level of radon in outdoor air is 0.4 pCi/L.)

With the technology that is available today, radon levels in most homes can be reduced to 2 pCi/L or below.

For radon mitigation, using a certified radon mitigation contractor is recommended.
To find certified radon contractors in your area, click here.

If you need financial assistance to help pay for radon mitigation, CCE of Tompkins County has identified several potential sources:

     1.  USDA Section 504 Loan and Grant Program (Repair and Rehabilitation)

• Very low income (single family) homeowners in rural areas.
• 1% loans up to $20,000.
• May be used for general repairs and improvements, or to make accessible for individuals with disabilities.
• Use HUD guidelines.
• Grants up to $7500 only for ages 62 or older to remove health or safety hazards.
• Contact Anne Marie Donovan:  (315) 677-3552  ext.4,  or
  email: <annmarie.donovan@ny.usda.gov>
• http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rhs/sfh/brief_repairloan.htm

     2.   Better Housing for Tompkins County

•  For residents of Tompkins County who meet income requirements.
•  Housing rehabilitation program for homeowners.
•  Home repairs for seniors and disabled residents.
•  (607) 273-2187
• http://www.betterhousingtc.org/bet2_service.html
  

    3.   HUD 203(k) Mortgage Insurance Program

•  Home buyers can finance the purchase and repair or improvement of home (including reduction of radon levels) using single mortgage loan.
•   http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/203k/203kmenu.cfm
  

    4.    NY Energy Smart programs

•   Financial assistance or low-interest loans for energy efficiency improvements.
•   Radon mitigation can be incorporated into workplan.
•   http://getenergysmart.org/SingleFamilyHomes/ExistingBuilding/HomeOwner.aspx

   
    5.   Remodel New York Program

•   Below market rates to finance purchase and renovation of home for first time homebuyers.
•   Eligible renovations include health and safety repairs and energy efficiency improvements, etc.
• http://www.nyhomes.org/home/index.asp?page=295