What Every New Jersey Homeowner Should Know About Radon

When buying or maintaining a home in New Jersey, one invisible issue that often goes overlooked is radon. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can enter homes through the ground and accumulate to unsafe levels — without any smell, color, or warning signs.

Because radon cannot be seen or detected without proper testing, it is important for homeowners and buyers to understand the risks and how testing works.

What Is Radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It moves upward through the ground and can enter homes through:

• Cracks in foundation walls or floors
• Gaps around sump pumps or drains
• Construction joints
• Openings around pipes
• Crawlspaces

Over time, radon can accumulate inside a home, especially in lower levels such as basements.

Why Radon Matters in New Jersey

New Jersey is considered a moderate to high radon risk state. Many homes — even newly constructed properties — have been found to contain elevated radon levels.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends action when radon levels reach 4.0 pCi/L or higher.

Because radon levels vary from home to home, the only way to know if a property is affected is to test.

When Should You Test for Radon?

Radon testing is strongly recommended:

• During a real estate transaction
• When purchasing a home with a finished basement
• After major renovations
• If a home has never been tested
• If installing a radon mitigation system

Even homes without basements can have elevated radon levels.

How Radon Testing Works

Radon testing is simple and non-invasive. A certified radon measurement device is placed in the lowest livable area of the home for a specified testing period. The device continuously measures radon levels and produces a report at the conclusion of the testing period.

Testing does not require drilling, demolition, or disruption of the property.

What Happens If Radon Levels Are High?

If elevated radon levels are detected, a licensed radon mitigation professional can install a mitigation system. These systems typically use a vent pipe and fan to safely redirect radon gas away from the home.

Radon mitigation systems are common in New Jersey and are generally effective at reducing radon levels.

Why Choose a Certified Radon Professional?

Radon testing should be performed by a properly trained and certified professional using approved equipment and protocols. Proper placement, monitoring, and reporting are essential to ensure accurate results.

Working with a certified inspector ensures that testing is conducted according to industry standards and that results are clearly explained.