Buying a home in Chicago comes with a long checklist. One question that often gets overlooked is radon testing. Many buyers assume a standard home inspection covers everything. That is not always the case.

So, do you need radon testing with your Chicago home inspection? In most cases, the answer is yes.

What Is Radon and Why Should Chicago Homebuyers Care?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium breaks down in soil. You cannot see it, smell it, or taste it. The only way to know if it is present is through testing.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency reports that nearly 40 percent of homes tested in Illinois have elevated radon levels.

In a city like Chicago, where many homes have basements, radon can enter through foundation cracks, sump pits, and floor drains. Even newer homes are not immune. Read more