Ideally, no one will live in a house with elevated radon levels, as prolonged exposure increases the risk of serious health issues like lung cancer. However, homes with radon can be made safe through mitigation systems, such as active soil depressurization. Testing for radon regularly and addressing high levels helps ensure a safe living environment.

Installing a mitigation system reduces radon levels, which can cause lung cancer, providing peace of mind and long-term health benefits. It can also increase your home’s value, as many buyers prefer properties with radon safety measures in place. The investment is relatively low compared to the potential health risks associated with prolonged radon exposure.

The cost for a radon mitigation system typically ranges from $800 to $1,500, with an average around $1,000. The final price depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the severity of the radon issue, and the type of system required. Your home's foundation type also significantly impacts the cost. For example, sealing and ventilating an unfinished basement might cost around $4,600, while encapsulating a crawl space without a foundation slab can range from $1,500 to $15,000.

The soil beneath your house is most likely what’s causing an increased level of radon. This is because soil holds radioactivity for a long time and it’s also what most buildings are built on. Another common source of radon is water from a source that hasn’t been through periodic radon tests, such as well water. Over time, the radon from the soil can inhabit other parts of your house like the foundation or plumbing.