Maryland Radon Facts

How to protect yourself and your family from radon

What is radon? Why is it Important?
Radon is an invisible, odorless radioactive gas in the earth that can get into your home. Exposure to the combinationof radon gas and cigarette smoke creates a greater risk of lung cancer than exposure to either factor alone.

The only way to know how much radon is in your home is do a radon test. If your home has too much radon, it is possible to remove it and lower the risk of cancer for you and your family. If you are considering relocating to Maryland and need to start your home search. CLICK HERE to get started.

Where is radon found in Maryland? (See Map Below)
Although radon can be found anywhere, some parts of Maryland have soil that make radon more likely. Basement and first floors typically have the highest radon levels because of their closeness to the ground.

Why should I test my home for radon?
Radon causes cancer. The longer you and your family are exposed to radon, the greater the risk of lung cancer. The risk is especially high for people who also smoke.

How do I test my home?
Testing your home is easy. Maryland Homes Team of RE/MAX Components recommends hiring a licensed home inspector with a certification to conduct radon tests which we believe are the most accurate. For a list of our preferred vendors, please contact us at 443-885-0875 or email us at marylandhomesteam@gmail.com You can also look for test kits in most area hardware stores and home improvement stores. Look for test kits that are certified by NRPP or NRSB, and follow the directions on the package. Generally, you should:

- Place the test kits in the lowest level that people will occupy, and/or the areas that are most heavily used (like bedrooms and playrooms).
- Place the kits in a dry area (not bathrooms or kitchens) where the kits will not be disturbed, and are not near moving air (windows, ventilation ducts)
- Leave the kits for somewhere between two and 90 days (the longer the test, the more accurate it is), seal them up immediately and mail to the testing company.

For more information call the Environmental Health Helpline:  1-866-703-3266

What Does My Test Mean?

Your radon test result is used to decide whether additional testing or some mitigation (removal of radon) is necessary. If our test is:

Less than 2 pCi/L - No further action is needed at this time; consider another test in the future if the condition of the home changes (cracks in the basement, etc.)

2-Less than 4 pCi/L - No action is needed, but you should re-test at least every five years or if home conditions change (construction, new basement, etc.)

4 pCi/L or more - You should do another test (either short - or long term) to confirm the results; if confirmed, consult a certified radon mitigation contractor. Maryland Homes Team has a list of preferred vendors we can share with you. Simply call us at 443-885-0875

Can I fix my home if it has radon?
Yes, Fixing your home is usually easy and not very expensive. Maryland Homes Team can certainly help you with obtaining the appropriate licensed contractor with the property credentials with the American Association of Radon Scientist & Technologist (AARST).

What about buying or selling a home?
MDE and MDH recommend testing your home for radon before you sell it. It's good for both you and the buyer to know. If you are buying a home, MDE and MDH recommend asking about radon, and about any testing or mitigation that has been done. Maryland Homes Team can help guide you through this process whether Buying or Selling your home.

New homes can be built with features to reduce radon.
Building new homes with simple and cost-effective radon-resistant features can reduce radon entry. Maryland Homes Team will contact your Builder of choice and gather more information for you.

​Every home should be tested before, or soon after, you more in. Even homes built with radon-resistant construction features should be tested. If high radon levels are found, it is easier and costs less to reduce radon levels in homes that are built radon-resistant.