Radon - Can I get a subsidy for remediation?

A Tax Credit for Radon Remediation: Logical Next Step for Feds

Posted by Kathleen Cooper, Senior Researcher and Paralegal on January 18, 2016

      

Faced with a seemingly infinite number of environmental health issues to work on at CELA, we make choices. Guided by population health approaches, we focus attention on issues where the stakes are high and large numbers of people are affected. Radon qualifies
There is no debate that radon causes cancer. It kills about 3300 Canadians a year and that’s a lot. Compared to other indoor pollutants, and using cancer risk lingo, the “lifetime excess cancer risk” from radon is orders of magnitude greater

Whether or not you’ve seen the Public Service or TV ads from the Holmes father/son team, a summary:

• Radon gas is a radioactive indoor pollutant
• Radon is the second leading cause of death from lung cancer in Canada (after smoking)
• It comes from the natural breakdown of uranium in the ground and enters building foundations, getting trapped indoors, even more so as we tighten buildings for energy efficiency
• Radon can only be detected via testing – a three-month test that needs to occur while doors and windows are closed up for winter

The federal government, especially Health Canada, has not generally dazzled anyone in recent years with action on environmental health threats. But for radon, they have done a great job. The list is long including valuable research and testing programs, updating the National Building Code, creating a Canadian certification program for radon mitigation professionals, and continuing to run extensive public outreach on the need to test
A quibble is leaving the Canadian radon guideline at 200 Bq/m3 (bequerels per cubic metre, a measure of the number of radioactive disintegrations per second). We agree with the David Suzuki Foundation, and others, that this number is based on out-of-date science and is double the 100 Bq/m3 level recommended by the World Health Organization
Nevertheless, the feds should be commended. They have tested over 19,000 federal buildings and about 18,000 residences across Canada and concluded that about 7% of homes in Canada (about 600,000 dwellings) have radon levels above the Canadian guideline
Some areas are known to be more of a problem. Up to 50% of homes have high radon levels in parts of Manitoba, New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, and Yukon. But, radon occurs in all homes at some level and every home should be tested.
In our work in the Green Budget Coalition, CELA is again calling on the federal government to provide Canadians with a tax credit to help offset radon mitigation costs. Mitigation involves diverting radon away from a foundation and can run between $500 and $3000 per house. This tax measure would be revenue neutral as it would be offset by increased tax revenues from businesses conducting radon remediation
A tax credit is especially necessary for existing homes. Recent and ongoing changes to provincial Building Codes have resulted, for the most part, in radon protection measures. Given the seriousness of this issue, our recent Radon Policy Challenge to provincial and territorial leaders seeks a comprehensive, health-focused approach to legislative reforms at the provincial level where most jurisdiction rests relevant to radon
For most of us, radon testing is a key first step. But, public uptake of Health Canada’s message about the need to test has been limited. It seems to be human nature to more easily avoid action on something you can’t see/smell/taste, and when you know action might cost money. A federal tax credit would send a strong signal to Canadians to take this issue more seriously and help them pay for it, should remediation be needed. Hopefully the feds will take this logical next step in their radon work and create tax relief for homeowners
And, being early in the year, it is not too late for you to test. Since for most Canadians doors and windows will likely still be closed up for another three months, order a test kit today. Find out more at Take Action on Radon

Post Script: If your home is a recent build and still within Tarion Warranty then the initial costs of testing will be for your expense but the remediation fees may be covered by Tarion due to the clause regarding air quality being acceptable or otherwise

Recalls of Propane, AC, Ceiling Fans, Blinds and Light Fixtures

Carrier AC and Heat Pumps http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2016/Carrier-Recalls-to-Repair-Packaged-Terminal-Air-Conditioners-Heat-Pumps-Previously-Recalled-Units/ 

Ceiling Fans http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2016/Casablanca-Recalls-Ceiling-Fans/ 

Lutron Roman Shades http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2016/Lutron-Electronics-Recalls-Roman-Shades/ 
Fontana Art Light Fixtures http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2016/FontanaArte-Recalls-Sonmi-Light-Fixtures/

Fan Heaters Due to Fire Hazard; Sold Exclusively at Bed Bath & Beyond (16-096): http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2016/CE-North-America-Recalls-Fan-Heaters

IKEA Ceiling Light Recall (Feb 2016) : Ceiling lights have plastic clips that may break and allow the shade to drop http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2016/IKEA-Recalls-Ceiling-Lamps/ Return for credit
Propane Without Odourant Added (Feb 2016) : If your heating is fuelled by Propane (or in tanks for BBQ etc) then check for the smell of propane when released into the atmosphere. There may be less than the required smell to confirm a leak http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2016/Crescent-Point-Energy-Recalls-To-Inspect-Propane-Gas/ Contact YOUR supplier to confirm that you are not part of this supply line. DO NOT check yourself
Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Recall (Feb 2016) : York / Amana / Goodman Room air-conditioning units have an issue with the power cords. Overheating and subsequent fire can result.  http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2016/Goodman-Company-Expands-Recall-of-Air-Conditioning-and-Heating-Units/ 

Budget pricing for a Variety of Improvement Projects

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The following costs are intended as ballpark estimates for repairs and/or improvements to a typical three bedroom home. Experience has shown that actual contractor quotations can vary by as much as 300%. Naturally, the quality of workmanship and materials will influence costs. The complexity of the job, accessibility and even economic conditions can also alter actual costs. Courtesy - Carson Dunlop

Roofing / Flashings / Chimneys
Install conventional asphalt shingles over existing shingles	$2.00 – $4.00 per sq.ft.
Strip and reshingle with conventional asphalt shingles	$2.75– $5.50 per sq.ft.
Strip and reshingle with premium quality asphalt shingles	$5.00 – $10.00 per sq .ft.
Strip and re-roof with cedar shingles	$9.00 – $18.00 per sq .ft.
Strip and replace built-up tar and gravel roof	$10.00 – $20.00 per sq.ft. (min. $1000)
Strip and replace single-ply membrane	$10.00 – $20.00 per sq.ft. (min. $1000)
Reflash typical skylight or chimney	$500.00 – $1000.00
Rebuild typical chimney above roof line	$25.00 – $50.00 per row of bricks (min. $400)
Rebuild typical single flue chimney above roof line	$200.00 – $400.00 per lin.ft. (min. $1000)
Exterior
Install galvanized or aluminum gutters and downspouts	$5.00 – $10.00 per lin.ft. (min. $500)
Install aluminum soffits and fascia	$8.00 – $16.00 per lin.ft.
Install aluminum or vinyl siding	$6.00 – $12.00 per sq.ft.
Repoint exterior wall (soft mortar)	$3.00 – 6.00 per sq.ft. (min. $500)
Repoint exterior wall (hard mortar)	$5.00 – $10.00 per sq.ft. (min. $500)
Parge foundation walls	$3.00 – $6.00 per sq.ft.
Dampproof foundation walls and install weeping tile	$150.00 – $300.00 per lin.ft. (min. $3,000)
Install a deck	$25.00 – $50.00 per sq.ft. (min. $1000)
Resurface existing asphalt driveway	$2.00 – $4.00 per sq.ft.
Install interlocking brick driveway	$8.00 – $16.00 per sq.ft.
Rebuild exterior basement stairwell	$5000.00 and up
Build detached garage	$70.00 – $140.00 per sq.ft.
Build retaining wall (wood)	$20.00 – $40.00 per sq.ft. (min. $500)
Build retaining wall (concrete)	$30.00 – $60.00 per sq.ft. (min $500)
Painting (trim only)	$2,000.00 – $4,000.00 and up
Painting (trim and wall surfaces)	$5,000.00 and up
Structure
Underpin one corner of house	$5,000.00 and up
Underpin or add foundations	$300.00 and up per lin.ft. (min. $3000)
Lower basement floor by underpinning and/or bench footings	$150.00 – $300.00 per lin.ft. (min. $5,000)
Replace deteriorating sill beam with concrete	$60.00 and up per lin.ft. (min. $2000)
Install basement support post with proper foundation	$800.00 – $1600.00
Perform chemical treatment for termites	$2000.00 and up
Repair minor crack in poured concrete foundation	$400.00 – $800.00
Electrical
Upgrade electrical service to 100 amps (including new panel)	$1200.00 – $3,000.00
Upgrade electrical service to 100 amps (if suitably sized panel already exists)	$800.00 – $1600.00
Upgrade electrical service to 200 amps	$1700.00 – $3,500.00
Install new circuit breaker panel	$700.00 – $1400.00
Replace circuit breaker (20 amp or less)	$100.00 – $200.00
Add 120 volt circuit (microwave, freezer, etc.)	$150.00 – $300.00
Add 240 volt circuit (dryer, stove, etc.)	$300.00 – $600.00
Add conventional receptacle	$200.00 – $400.00
Replace conventional receptacle with ground fault circuit receptacle	$70.00 -$140.00
Replace conventional receptacle with aluminum compatible type (CO/ALR)(assuming several are required)	$60.00 – $120.00 ea.
Upgrade entire house with aluminum compatible receptacles, connectors, etc.	$1000.00 – $2000.00
Rewire electrical outlet with reversed polarity (assuming electrician already there)	$5.00 – $10.00 ea.
Replace knob & tube wiring with conventional wiring (per room)	$1000.00 – $2000.00
Heating
Install mid-efficiency forced-air furnace	$2500.00 – $5,000.00
Install high-efficiency forced-air furnace	$3500.00 – $7,000.00
Install humidifier	$300.00 – $600.00
Install electronic air filter	$800.00 – $1600.00
Install mid-efficiency boiler	$3500.00 – $7,000.00
Install high-efficiency boiler	$6,000.00 – $12,000.00
Install circulating pump	$400.00 – $600.00
Install chimney liner for gas appliance	$500.00 – $1000.00
Install chimney liner for oil appliance	$700.00 – $1800.00
Install programmable thermostat	$200.00 – $400.00
Replace indoor oil tank	$1200.00 – $2500.00
Remove oil tank from basement	$600.00 and up
Remove abandoned underground oil tank	$10,000.00 and up
Replace radiator valve	$300.00 – $600.00
Add electric baseboard heater	$250.00 – $500.00
Convert from hot water heating to forced-air (bungalow)	$10,000.00 – $20,000.00
Convert from hot water heating to forced-air (two storey)	$15,000.00 – $30,000.00
Clean ductwork	$300.00 – $600.00
Cooling / Heat Pumps
Add central air conditioning on existing forced-air system	$3000.00 and up
Add heat pump to forced-air system	$4,000.00 – $8,000.00
Replace heat pump or air conditioning condenser	$1200.00 – $2500.00
Install independent air conditioning system	$10,000.00 – $20,000.00
Install ductless air conditioning system	$3,000.00 – $7,000.00
Insulation
Insulate open attic to modern standards	$0.80 – $1.60 per sq.ft.
Blow insulation into flat roof, cathedral ceiling or wall cavity	$2.00 – $4.00 per sq.ft.
Improve attic ventilation	$30.00 – $60.00 per vent
Plumbing
Replace galvanized piping with copper (two storey with one bathroom)	$2500.00 – $5,000.00
Replace water line to house	$2000.00 and up
Replace toilet	$500.00 and up
Replace basin, including faucets	$750.00 and up
Replace bathtub, including ceramic tile and faucets	$2500.00 and up
Install whirlpool bath, including faucets	$3500.00 and up
Retile bathtub enclosure	$1000.00 – $2000.00
Replace leaking shower stall pan	$1000.00 – $2000.00
Rebuild tile shower stall	$2500.00 – $5,000.00
Replace laundry tubs	$400.00 – $800.00
Remodel four-piece bathroom completely	$6,000.00 – $50,000.00
Connect waste plumbing system to municipal sewers	$5,000.00 and up
Install submersible pump	$1000.00 and up
Install suction or jet pump	$700.00 and up
Install modest basement bathroom	$6000.00 and up
Interior
Add drywall over plaster	$4.00 – $8.00 per sq.ft.
Sand and refinish hardwood floors	$2.00 – $4.00 per sq.ft.
Install replacement windows	$40.00 – $120.00 per sq.ft.
Install storm window	$200.00 – $400.00
Install masonry fireplace (if flue already roughed-in)	$3000.00 and up
Install zero-clearance fireplace (including chimney)	$3500.00 and up
Install glass doors on fireplace	$300.00 and up
Install skylight	$3000.00
Remodel kitchen completely	$10,000.00 -$110,000.00
Install gas fireplace	$3500.00 and up

Carbon Monoxide Detectors and the Fire Code

CO Detectors: (Oct 2015) On April 15th 2015 it became mandatory to install CO detectors in up to 6 dwelling homes that have appliances that burn fuels and produce carbon monoxide. On Oct 15th 2015 buildings that have more than 6 dwellings now have to have them installed with the following stipulations:

1: If there is a fuel burning appliance installed then a detector should be installed adjacent to the sleeping area or areas

2: If there is a floor, ceiling or wall shared with a garage then a detector should be installed adjacent to the sleeping area or areas

3: If there is a floor, ceiling or wall shared with a service room with a fuel burning appliance then a detector should be installed adjacent to the sleeping area

4: If there is a service room with a fuel burning appliance then a detector should be installed in the service room

Dishwasher Recalls - Bosch, Gaggenau, Kenmore Elite and Thermador

BSH Home Appliances Recalls Dishwashers Due to Fire Hazard

http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2016/BSH-Home-Appliances-Recalls-Dishwashers/

 

Name of Product: Bosch, Gaggenau, Kenmore Elite and Thermador Dishwashers

 

Hazard: The power cord can overheat, posing a fire hazard.

 

Remedy: Repair

Consumers should immediately stop using the dishwasher and contact BSH Home Appliances for a free inspection and repair.

Consumer Contact: BSH Home Appliances Repair Hotline toll-free at 888-965-5813 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. EST Monday through Sunday or the brand Web site for more information.

 

Bosch                    www.bosch-home.com/us and click on Support, then Safety Notices

Gaggenau           www.gaggenau.com/us and click on Support, then Safety Notices

Kenmore             www.sears.com and click on Product Recalls at the bottom of the page 

Thermador         www.thermador.com and click on Support, then Safety Notices

 

 

Media Contact: BSH Home Appliances Corporation at 310-552-4114

 

Photos available at http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/2016/BSH-Home-Appliances-Recalls-Dishwashers/

 

Units: About 149,000 (in addition, about 45,000 were sold in Canada)

 

Description: This recall involves power cords supplied with certain Bosch, Gaggenau, Kenmore Elite and Thermador brand dishwashers that were manufactured from January 2008 through December 2013. Model and serial numbers are located on the top side of the dishwashers’ inner door panels. The following brands, models and serial numbers are being recalled:

 

Brand	Model # beginning with	Serial # range
Bosch	SGE63E,    SGV63E,    SHE68E, SHE7ER,   SHE8ER,    SHE9ER, SHE9PT,    SHV58E,   SHV68E, SHV7ER,   SHV9ER,  SHV9PT, SHX58E,    SHX5ER,   SHX68E, SHX7ER,   SHX8ER,  SHX9ER, SHX9PT,    SPE5ES,   SPV5ES, SPX5ES	FD 8801 - FD 9312
Gaggenau	DF2417,      DF2607,   DF2617	FD 8904 – FD 9312
Thermador	DWHD64,  DWHD65	FD 8908  -  FD 9312
	Model # beginning with	Serial # beginning with
Kenmore Elite	630.13003,  630.13023,  630.13993, 630.14003	010 or 013

 

 

Incidents/Injuries: BSH Home Appliances has received 10 reports of the electrical cord overheating, including five reports of fire resulting in property damage. No injuries have been reported.

 

Sold at: Appliance and specialty retailers, department stores, authorized builder distributors, home improvement stores nationwide and online between January 2009 and May 2014 for between $850 and $2600.

 

Importer/Distributor: BSH Home Appliances Corp., of Irvine, Calif.

 

Manufactured in: Germany

 

Note: Health Canada's press release is available at:  http://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/hc-sc/2015/55022r-eng.php

Sewer Gases

Sewer Gases : (Oct 2015) If you smell a nasty smell in your basement it could be coming from the floor drain. many new homes feed water to the drain U Bend (P trap) every time a close toilet flushes. Older homes do not and the trap may dry out releasing the odours from the drains to enter your home. Refill the trap with water and then add a small amount of cooking oil ( maybe a cups worth ) to float on top of the water and create a seal to prevent further evaporation

Touchless Faucets Recalled

Glacier Bay and Schӧn kitchen faucets

 

Hazard: The battery box used to power the faucet’s sensor can short circuit, overheat and/or melt, posing fire and burn hazards to consumers.

 

Remedy: Repair

Consumers should immediately unplug and remove batteries from the faucet’s battery box and contact Lota USA for a replacement battery box for the faucet.

 

Consumer Contact: Lota USA/Parts Helper toll-free at 877-580-5682 Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. ET, on Saturdays between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. ET, or online at www.lotausa.com and click on “Recall” or at www.homedepot.com and click on “Product Recalls” at the bottom of the page for more information