Does NY have high radon levels?
In New York, homes that have been tested and reported to the state show levels five times that, according to state data. In the Southern half of the state alone — excluding New York City and Westchester, Nassau, Suffolk and Rockland counties — 43 percent of those homes have elevated radon levels.
How common is radon in New York?
The first NY radon map shows that more than half of New York, 34 out of 62 counties are considered high risk for radon gas. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in most of the world and accounts for more than 20,000 lung cancer deaths per year in the USA.
Does upstate NY have radon?
A quarter of the houses in three upstate counties and 5 percent of all houses in New York State, have radon levels above the Federal safety standard, according to a study by the State Energy Authority.
Is radon a problem in New York?
According to the Lung Association’s State of Lung Cancer Report, an estimated 13.9% of New York radon test results equal or exceed the EPA Action level of 4 pCi/L. Nationally, 21.8% of homes are at or above the action level. “Radon in homes is more common than you think.
Is radon testing required in NY?
New York State law requires homeowners and real estate agents to disclose radon test results or information to potential home buyers. Also, the United States Environmental Protection Agency recommends that you test your home before putting it on the market and, if necessary, reduce the home’s radon level.
Are radon tests required in NY?
What homes are most likely to have radon?
Exposure to radon can be especially high for people who use their basements as a living space. Like basements, homes with slab-on-grade foundations have many openings that allow radon to enter. Homes with crawl spaces (vented and sealed) can also have elevated radon levels.
How long do you have to be exposed to radon before it becomes a problem?
Radon gas can damage cells in your lungs, which can lead to cancer. Radon is responsible for about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States, though it usually takes 5 to 25 years to develop. Early signs and symptoms of lung cancer may include: persistent cough.