Radon Testing In New Jersey

Real estate professionals play a key role in New Jersey’s efforts to reduce radon exposure among residents. Since 1986, when radon was first discovered to be a health hazard in homes, radon testing has been integrated within most real estate transactions in New Jersey.

In fact, 75-80% of the approximately 60,000 radon tests now done in New Jersey each year are done as part of real estate sales, according to the database of testing information maintained by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Radon Program.

Although most real estate professionals are well informed about radon, questions occasionally arise about the proper conduct of tests.

Settlers Home Inspections can test your new home for radon. Testing is easy and fast. Most results are available in a few days.

Call us if you have any questions.

Termites Are Common in our Area

It’s true that termite are common in our area. As a termite Inspector I find infestation by wood destroying insects often.  Areas such as basements, crawlspaces and garages can be moist or damp on occasion and be a ripe environment for activity.

Massive damage can be done to a home by termites, carpenter ants or other wood destroying insects.  In humid areas where termites are a problem, its not unusual to find many homes that have been virtually hollowed out, their wood siding turning to dust at a touch.

Inspection is the only way to find infestation before damages occur. It is highly recommended that you get a termite inspection in addition to your general home inspection.

Here are a few Tips

When water leaks or spills occur indoors – Act Quickly. If wet or damp materials or areas are dried 24-48 hours after a leak or spill happens, in most cases mold will not grow.

Clean and repair roof gutters regularly.

Make sure the ground slopes away from the building foundation, so that water does not enter or collect around the foundation.

Keep air conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly.

Keep indoor humidity low. If possible, keep indoor humidity below 60 percent (ideally between 30 and 50 percent) relative humidity. Relative humidity can be measured with a moisture or humidity meter, a small, inexpensive ($10-$50) instrument available at many hardware stores.

If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes ACT QUICKLY to dry the wet surface and reduce the moisture/water source. Condensation can be a sign of high humidity.

Moisture and Mold Prevention and Control Tips are found Here