Landlords in Maine are scrambling to comply with a new law
that requires radon testing in all residential rental buildings. The deadline
was March 1, and while many are doing what they can to avoid being fined $250
per violation.
So, what is radon?
It’s a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that forms from the decay
of radioactive elements such as uranium,
which can be found in soil and rock. Radon can transmit from the ground to air
and water. It can be found outdoors in low levels, but in homes, dwellings or
well water it can spike at dangerously high levels.
Long term exposure to radon can cause cancer. You can buy
home testing kits to test the levels on your property, or you can hire a
professional. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that all
buildings be tested below the third floor for radon detection.
Landlords can address problems with radon in rentals in
several ways. First, you can provide good ventilation with open windows and
fans to disperse the gas. Also, proper
sealing of the foundation and lower levels will help to keep the gas from
seeping from the soil into the dwelling. A radon contractor would be the best
source of knowledge for your particular region and structure.
The EPA also has more
information for tenants on their website.
You can also find a radon contractor in your area here.
For this and more information on maximizing the profitability of your rental, please visit our website at http://www.alwaysscreen.com.
