It is estimated the 15,000 to 22,000 cases of lung cancer deaths in the United States are a result of radon gas.  It's the leading cause of lung cancer second only to smoking.  Southern Wisconsin is in the belt of the highest concentration of Radon levels across the United States (see map below).  Does this mean your home has radon gas issues?  Not necessarily, but it is a colorless odorless gas that can only be detected with the right equipment.  We use Sun Nuclear continuous monitoring systems which are professional devices that are approved for real estate transactions.  This gas typically comes up through the ground and enters the home usually through the crawlspace, sump pump, wells, basements, and slabs.  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends taking action to reduce radon in homes that have a radon level at or above 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) of air.  1 in 15 houses across America have elevated levels that require mitigation.  Should high Radon levels in your potential home stop you from purchasing?  No.  Mitigation of Radon can substantially lower the levels to less than that of another house you might purchase that doesn't require mitigation.  Not something to be scared of, just be informed on.  More information about Radon can be found here: