How to Fix My Radon Problem?

Action to reduce the radon level should be taken in a home whenever the average annual radon concentration exceeds 200 Bq/m³ and the radon level should be reduced to a value as low as practicable.

How Soon Should Radon Levels be Reduced?

The higher the radon concentration, the sooner reduction measures should be undertaken.

The following checklist of actions should be considered when your home tests above 200 Bq/m³:

1. Contact Health Canada for information on health risks Tel: 1-613-954-6647 or 1-613-948-3232;
2. Contact  Canadian National Radon Proficiency Program (C-NRPP) at 1 800 269-4174 or on the website for a list of certified service providers who can help reduce the level of radon in your home.

If your home tests above the guideline you should hire a certified radon professional to determine the best and most cost effective way to reduce the radon level in your home. The most common radon reduction method is called sub-slab depressurization. With this solution a pipe is installed through the basement sub-flooring to an outside wall or up through to the roof line with a small fan attached which draws the radon from below the house to the outside before it can enter your home. This type of system can reduce the radon level in a home by over 90%. Increasing ventilation and sealing major entry routes can also help reduce radon levels but their effectiveness will be limited depending on how high the radon level is and the unique characteristics of each home.

Health Canada recommends that homeowners consult with a certified radon professional to determine the best radon reduction method. As with any service agreement or contract, caution is recommended and references and certification should be verified.

For more detailed information on radon reduction solutions Health Canada, in partnership with experts in radon mitigation, developed the following publication Reducing Radon Levels in Existing Homes: A Canadian Guide for Professional Contractors.