The Risks You Can’t See
When evaluating a home, it’s easy to focus on visible features like the roof, structure, and finishes. Yet some of the most serious issues are invisible. Mold growth and radon gas can quietly affect air quality and long-term health without any clear warning signs.
In Chattanooga’s humid climate and clay-rich soil, both concerns appear more often than many buyers realize.
Understanding Mold Testing
Mold thrives where moisture persists — in crawl spaces, basements, or behind drywall. Even in well-kept homes, hidden leaks or poor ventilation can allow spores to spread.
Professional mold testing uses air and surface samples to identify the type and concentration of spores, which helps determine whether a moisture or contamination problem exists.
The goal isn’t just to find mold, but to understand what caused it. Tracing sources of moisture early prevents structural damage and keeps indoor air quality within safe levels.
Understanding Radon Testing
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas released from rock and soil. It’s invisible, odorless, and can enter homes through cracks, drains, or foundations.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. The only way to know a property’s level is through testing — there’s no other reliable indicator.
In some areas of Hamilton County and the greater Chattanooga region, geological conditions make elevated radon levels more likely. Because results can vary from one property to another, testing each home individually is the safest approach.
Why Testing Matters for Buyer
Adding mold and radon testing to a standard home inspection helps buyers make decisions based on a complete understanding of a property’s health and safety.
Results from these tests provide objective information that can guide next steps — whether that means further evaluation, remediation, or simply peace of mind knowing levels are normal.
By identifying air-quality issues before closing, buyers avoid unexpected expenses later and can plan improvements that make the home safer and more comfortable.
A Thoughtful Step Toward Long-Term Safety
Home inspections are designed to protect buyers from costly surprises. Mold and radon testing extend that protection to the unseen parts of a home — the air and environment that will matter most after move-in.
In a region like Chattanooga, where humidity and soil conditions increase these risks, including both tests is a practical and responsible choice for anyone purchasing a home.
External Resource
For more on radon safety and testing guidelines, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at epa.gov/radon.