New Illinois Law Requires Radon Disclosure to Tenants

Jan. 30, 2012 - PRLog -- A new law that went into effect on January 1st has caught many landlords off guard across Illinois.  An amendment to the Radon Awareness Act now requires landlords to inform renters about any radon testing that has taken place in their unit and what radon hazards may exist.  It also allows renters to request a radon test if it has not been tested in the past.

Radon is a radioactive element that is colorless, odorless and tasteless.  It forms from the natural decay of uranium found in the ground and soils across Illinois and the nation.  Due to its radioactivity, it is considered a health hazard and is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers.

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency’s (IEMA) radon program is now offering guidance to help renters better understand radon hazards and their rights under this new law.  “About one-third of all housing in Illinois is rented,” said IEMA Director Jonathon Monken. “This new law will help renters find out if their landlords have already tested for radon and, if so, what levels were detected. For units where no testing has been done, we hope more renters will be proactive and get their homes tested. Radon is one health risk that can be easily reduced. Testing your home is the important first step.”

The U.S. Surgeon General recommends that all homes in the U.S. be tested for radon.     This is the only way to know if a property has levels of radon above the EPA’s action level of 4 pCi/L.

“Radon is a silent killer that doesn’t have to be a threat to families,” reported Ed Chambers, President of EC2, an Illinois-based environmental consulting firm.  “Affordable testing solutions exist that can identify any potential hazards due to radon.  If high levels are found, there are radon mitigation techniques that can be used to lower these levels,” he continued.

EC2 has sponsored an online video to help educate people about radon risks.  It can be seen at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yOMtXafNwM



To learn more about radon or other environmental and indoor air quality services, please visit http://www.4ec2inc.com, email info@4ec2inc.com or call (815) 703-9000.

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About EC2, Inc.
EC2 is a leading provider of environmental consulting and inspection services for clients across the United States. Based in the Chicago area, the company provides their services to clients ranging from local companies and institutions to international Fortune 500 Corporations.