Radon Gas

Background 

Radon is a naturally occuring gas which has been known to be a cause of lung cancer for many years. In the light of this known risk, the Government accepted advice from the Health Protection Agency (HPA) to commission a survey to identify those areas of the country with higher than average levels. We have access to these detailed maps and can give you clear guidance as to whether the property you are thinking of buying is likely to be affected.

Incidence

Indoor radon concentrations are dependent on various factors, including geology, building construction and the individual habits of the property owner. There can, however, be wide variations on the radon level in individual properties within an area with above average radon levels. A simple and inexpensive detection kit can be purchased from the HPA.

Implications

Where high concentrations of radon have been identified, the aim is to reduce those levels in existing homes and to construct new property with precautions against radon.

Remedial work

Radon enters a building from below and unless remedial work is carried out or there are precautions in place, it will collect in the building.

There are passive and active methods of treatment. The passive system comprises an air-tight barrier below the property (usually the preferred method in new buildings). The active system comprises natural or mechanical underfloor ventilation, or an internal extraction system. Clearly, there are some small running costs associated with the active systems. Sometimes passive systems need to be supplemented with active protection methods.

Simply opening windows is not effective but there should be trickle vents over window units. There is no proof that solid downstairs floors provide any more protection than suspended timber floors.

Costs 

This will be very much dependent on the size of the property and measures required. Generally the costs of depressurisation units and sumps are between £250 and £1000. There will be costs for installation and running costs. You should always get estimates from a specialist.

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