Understanding Radon Gas and Tarion’s Warranty Coverage
Radon Gas: A Growing Concern for Homeowners In recent years, awareness of radon gas exposure has increased, especially among new home buyers. Health Canada released a report in 2012 stating that long-term exposure to radon gas could be responsible for up to 16% of lung cancer cases. As a result, more attention is being given to radon-related risks and mitigation measures in residential properties. Tarion’s Warranty Coverage for Radon Gas Tarion has established guidelines for addressing radon gas claims under its home warranty coverage. If radon levels exceed Health Canada’s recommended limit of 200 Bq/m³, the issue is eligible for coverage under Tarion’s warranty program. To ensure consistency in warranty decisions, Tarion employees follow a specific set of guidelines when evaluating radon-related claims. Radon Warranty Coverage Breakdown First-Year Warranty: Second-Year Warranty: Years 3-7: Major Structural Defect (MSD) Coverage: Limitations of Tarion’s Radon Coverage While Tarion provides some protection for homeowners dealing with radon issues, there are limitations to what is covered: Financial Cap on Radon Claims For purchase agreements signed on or after February 1, 2021, Tarion’s maximum warranty coverage for radon gas remediation is $50,000 per home. This coverage is intended to address the costs associated with mitigating radon levels that exceed 200 Bq/m³, as per Health Canada’s guidelines. For homes with agreements signed before February 1, 2021, the previous financial cap of $15,000 per home still applies. Homeowner Requirements for a Radon Claim To file a valid radon claim with Tarion, homeowners must provide the following documentation: Next Steps for Homeowners Lack of Awareness Among Homeowners Despite the availability of radon coverage under Tarion, many homeowners remain unaware of these protections. In many cases, builders do not proactively inform buyers about radon risks or warranty coverage. As radon awareness continues to grow, it is essential for homeowners to educate themselves and take proactive steps in testing and mitigating radon in their homes. Need Help with Radon Testing or Mitigation? For professional radon testing and mitigation services, contact Alder Creek Radon Gas Pros to ensure your home is safe from radon exposure.
Radon 101: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know
What is Radon? Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It seeps into homes through cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, and other openings. Because it is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, radon can accumulate in indoor spaces without detection, posing significant health risks. The Health Risks of Radon Exposure Radon and Lung Cancer Exposure to elevated radon levels is a leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. According to Health Canada, radon exposure is responsible for approximately 16% of lung cancer deaths each year. Smokers who are also exposed to radon have an even higher risk of developing lung cancer. How Common is Radon in Canadian Homes? Health Canada’s National Radon Survey found that up to 44% of homes in certain regions exceed the recommended radon guidelines. While most testing has been conducted in residential properties, radon is also present in workplaces, schools, and commercial buildings. Radon and Building Codes in Canada National Building Code Requirements The National Building Code of Canada includes specific measures to facilitate radon mitigation in new constructions. These provisions make it easier to install a full mitigation system if post-occupancy radon testing reveals high levels. Key Building Code Requirements: Important Considerations for Homeowners While these building measures are valuable, they do not fix radon on their own. If radon levels are high, a mitigation system must be activated by a C-NRPP-certified Radon Professional. Homeowners should: Protecting Low-Income Canadians from Radon Exposure Ensuring that all Canadians have access to radon-safe homes requires additional measures, including: How to Reduce Radon Levels in Your Home Testing for Radon The only way to know if your home has high radon levels is to conduct a radon test. Short-term and long-term radon test kits are available, but Health Canada recommends a long-term test (at least 90 days) for the most accurate results. Professional Radon Mitigation If testing reveals radon levels above the recommended limit (200 Bq/m³), mitigation is necessary. A certified radon professional can install an active radon mitigation system, which typically involves: Take Action Today Radon is a serious but preventable health risk. Protect your family by:✅ Testing your home for radon.✅ Ensuring builders follow radon mitigation guidelines.✅ Advocating for stronger enforcement of building codes and workplace protections. Need Professional Radon Testing or Mitigation? Contact Alder Creek Radon Gas Pros for expert radon testing and mitigation services. Ensure your home is safe and radon-free!
