Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It’s colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it impossible to detect without proper testing equipment. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers in Canada, responsible for approximately 3,200 deaths annually according to Health Canada.

Halifax and the surrounding areas have some of the highest radon levels in Canada due to our unique geology. Health Canada estimates that 1 in 8 Canadian homes have radon levels above the guideline of 200 Bq/m³, but in Halifax and Nova Scotia, this rate is significantly higher. Testing is the only way to know if your home has elevated radon levels.

We offer both short-term and long-term radon testing. Short-term tests provide baseline results in as little as 30 minutes and are typically conducted over 2-7 days. Long-term tests (90+ days) provide the most accurate annual average and are recommended by Health Canada for making mitigation decisions.

Health Canada recommends taking action if your radon level is above 200 Bq/m³ (Becquerels per cubic metre). The World Health Organization suggests an even lower action level of 100 Bq/m³. We recommend mitigation for any level above 200 Bq/m³, and strongly encourage homeowners to consider mitigation even at lower levels for optimal health protection.

Professional radon mitigation systems are highly effective, typically reducing radon levels by 80-95% or more. The most common method is sub-slab depressurization, which creates negative pressure beneath your home’s foundation to prevent radon from entering. Our systems are designed for each home’s unique characteristics to ensure maximum effectiveness.

We offer free initial radon screening tests to give you baseline information. Long-term professional testing typically ranges from $150-$300. Mitigation system costs vary based on your home’s size, foundation type, and complexity, generally ranging from $1,500-$3,500. We provide detailed quotes after assessing your specific situation.

While radon testing is not legally required for home sales in Nova Scotia, it is increasingly requested by home buyers and recommended by real estate professionals. Many buyers now include radon testing as part of their home inspection. Having a recent radon test or mitigation system can be a selling point for your property.

Yes, new homes can have radon problems just like older homes. In fact, newer homes are often built more airtight, which can actually increase radon concentrations. Nova Scotia's building code now requires rough-in for radon mitigation in new construction, but testing is still essential to determine if active mitigation is needed.