Radon is an invisible, odorless gas that can enter a home without any obvious warning. Many Central Florida homeowners do not realize the signs are there until a radon test reveals its presence.
While radon is more common in certain parts of the country, pockets of elevated levels exist throughout Florida. This means every home has the potential for radon exposure, no matter its age, style, or location.
Because radon cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, the signs are not always clear. Still, there are patterns and conditions that increase risk. This guide explains the most common signs that your home may have elevated radon levels, what homeowners should watch for, and when it is time to schedule radon testing.
Why Radon Testing Matters in Central Florida
Many homeowners assume Florida is not a radon-prone state, but this is not true. According to the Florida Department of Health, one in five Florida homes tested shows elevated radon levels. This includes homes with slab foundations, crawlspaces, and even newer construction.
Central Florida’s soil and geology allow radon to collect under homes, especially in areas with:
Sandy soil
Deep foundations
Poor ventilation under the slab
Cracks or gaps around plumbing or utilities
High humidity keeps air movement low
Because radon has no smell or taste, the only way to confirm levels is through testing. Recognizing the conditions that increase risk helps homeowners decide when to act.
The Most Common Signs of Radon Exposure in a Home
Radon itself does not create visible stains or odors. Instead, signs appear through a combination of building conditions, indoor air quality complaints, and the home’s foundation or soil contact.
Here are the most important indicators to watch for.
1. Air That Feels Stale or Heavy in Lower Levels
Radon collects in the lowest part of a home because it enters through the soil. In Central Florida, many homes built on slabs still have areas where air becomes stagnant.
can indicate poor air circulation, which increases the chance that radon is accumulating.
Radon rises naturally, but homes with closed-up windows, long cooling seasons, and limited airflow can trap more of it inside.
2. Cracks in the Foundation or Slab
Cracks in concrete slabs or block walls create easy pathways for soil gases. These cracks do not cause radon, but they make it easier for radon to enter.
Common entry points include:
Hairline cracks across the slab
Cracks in block walls
Gaps around pipes
Openings around sump wells or utility penetrations
Florida’s soil shifts during rainy and dry seasons. As the ground expands and contracts, new cracks can form, giving radon more pathways inside.
3. High Humidity Levels That Make the Home Feel Damp
Radon enters from the soil, and Florida’s climate keeps moisture levels high. When a home feels damp for long periods, it often means the air is not moving well. Poor circulation allows radon to collect in the lowest parts of the home.
High humidity does not prove radon is present, but it often appears in homes with elevated levels because of:
Long cooling seasons
Reduced ventilation
Slab contact with moist soil
Indoor air that stays trapped for long periods
The EPA notes that radon levels can rise in homes that are sealed tightly or cooled for long periods without fresh airflow.
4. Lingering Odors or Stuffy Rooms
While radon itself has no smell, rooms with poor airflow often develop odors that linger. If certain rooms always feel stuffy or take a long time to air out, it may indicate that the air is not moving well enough to prevent radon from building up.
Stuffy rooms do not confirm radon, but they signal airflow problems that increase risk.
5. Soil Contact Around the Home That Looks Damp All Year
Damp or wet soil around the exterior of a home can increase the chance that radon collects below the slab. Central Florida’s rainy seasons, sprinkler systems, and high groundwater all contribute to saturated soil.
Wet soil does not cause radon, but it allows gases to stay trapped close to the foundation, making it easier for radon to seep inside.
6. Long Periods With Windows Closed
Florida’s heat, storms, and humidity mean many homeowners keep windows closed almost all year. When indoor air does not circulate, radon has fewer ways to escape.
Energy-efficient homes are great for comfort and cooling costs, but they often allow radon levels to rise more easily without regular testing.
At a Glance: Conditions That Increase Radon Risk
Condition
Why It Matters
What Homeowners Notice
Foundation cracks
Creates radon entry points
Small gaps, hairline cracks
High humidity
Reduces airflow
Rooms feel damp or sticky
Poor ventilation
Traps radon indoors
Stuffy or still air
Long cooling seasons
Home stays sealed
Hard to introduce fresh air
Damp soil around the home
Holds gases near the slab
Moist areas or pooling water
Why Is Radon a Health Concern?
Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, according to the EPA.
Long-term exposure increases risk because radon particles can be inhaled into the lungs.
Children may be more sensitive to radon because their breathing rates are higher relative to their body size.
The health effects of radon come from long-term exposure, not short-term contact. This is why regular testing is important, especially during the times of year when windows stay closed, and air is less likely to move freely.
How Do Radon Levels Change Throughout the Year?
Radon levels can rise or fall depending on several seasonal factors. Many Central Florida homes experience changes due to:
Rainy seasons and storm moisture
High water tables
Temperature swings
HVAC usage patterns
Soil pressure changes
The EPA also notes that radon levels often spike during cooler months when homes stay closed. In Central Florida, similar increases can happen during hot summer months when air conditioners run all day.
How Does Radon Enter a Home?
Radon moves from the soil into homes through the path of least resistance. Common entry points include:
Foundation cracks
Open block walls
Gaps around plumbing or electrical
Sump pump openings
Crawlspaces or low-lying areas
Once inside, radon becomes trapped without proper ventilation. Because radon is a gas, it can move through even very small gaps.
What Homeowners Should Do if These Signs Are Present
If you notice any conditions on this list, the next step is simple: schedule a radon test. Testing is the only way to confirm the presence or level of radon inside a home.
Homeowners should consider testing when:
Buying or selling a home
Moving into a home built on a slab
Renovating or opening sealed areas
Living in a home with little airflow
Noticing persistent humidity or moisture issues
It has been more than two years since the last test
Radon testing is fast, affordable, and one of the most helpful steps homeowners can take to ensure a safe indoor environment.
Other Related Questions
Do Florida homes with slabs still need radon testing? Yes. Even homes without basements can have elevated radon levels because the gas moves directly through the soil and slab.
Can radon get into newer energy-efficient homes? Yes. Tighter construction often traps indoor air for longer periods, which can allow radon to accumulate more easily.
Is radon only a concern in older homes? No. Radon can affect homes of any age, and newer homes can sometimes experience higher levels due to improved air sealing.
Should I test for radon before buying a home in Central Florida? Many buyers do. Radon testing provides peace of mind and helps you understand the indoor air quality before closing.
When to Call a Professional
Call a qualified inspector when you want accurate testing and clear results. Testing is recommended when:
Buying or selling a home
Noticing poor airflow or humidity issues
Living in a home with slab-on-grade construction
It has been two or more years since the last test
You want to confirm the current indoor air quality
You live in an area known for elevated radon levels
Professionals use accurate testing equipment and provide clear results, so you know whether additional steps are needed to make the home safer.
Conclusion
Radon is a silent indoor air quality concern that can affect any home in Central Florida. While the signs are not always obvious, certain conditions and patterns make elevated radon levels more likely. Recognizing these risk factors and scheduling a radon test can help protect your home and your family.
If you want a clear understanding of radon levels in your home, Central Florida Building Inspectors can help. Book a visit today to get accurate results and take the next step toward a safer indoor environment.
A double-tapped breaker is one of the most common electrical issues found during home inspections in Central Florida. Many homeowners do not know it is there until an inspector removes the panel cover and points it out.
It is a simple wiring mistake, but it can lead to bigger electrical problems if it is not corrected. This guide explains what a double-tapped breaker is, why it appears so often in Florida homes, how inspectors identify it, and what usually comes next once it is included in a report.
What a Double-Tapped Breaker Means
A double-tapped breaker is a breaker with two electrical wires secured under a terminal that was designed to hold only one wire.
Breakers are built to grip a single conductor at a time. The metal plate inside the terminal is shaped to clamp down on one wire so the connection stays steady when the system heats and cools.
When two wires are placed under the same screw, the terminal cannot grip both of them correctly. Even if the screw feels tight, the wires do not sit evenly, and the breaker is not operating the way the manufacturer intended.
The National Electrical Code requires electrical equipment to be used according to its listing, and most breakers are listed for one conductor only.
Double-taps often form when:
Someone adds a new device or outlet and uses a nearby breaker instead of installing a new circuit.
The electrical panel does not have enough open breaker spaces.
Older circuits were altered during repairs or upgrades.
A previous owner tried to make a quick connection without knowing the breaker could only take one wire.
A double-tapped breaker looks simple inside the panel, but it is a clear indicator that the wiring has been modified in a way that the equipment was not designed for.
Why Double-Tapped Breakers Are Common in Florida
Double-tapped breakers appear nationwide, but several characteristics of Florida homes make them especially common during CFBI inspections.
Many Homes Have Aging Panels
Homes built in the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s still rely on their original panels. These panels were not built for modern electrical loads.
As families have added more appliances, lighting, and outdoor features, many circuits have been extended or changed. When panels run out of breaker slots, a wire may be added to an existing breaker instead of a new one being installed.
High Electrical Demand Year-Round
Florida homes use air conditioning almost every month. Pool pumps, irrigation systems, water heaters, and chargers for outdoor equipment also create steady demand.
As electrical loads grow over time, circuits sometimes get modified in ways that create double taps.
Frequent HomeAdditions and Upgrades
Outdoor kitchens, new lighting, enclosed patios, and whole-home renovations are common in this region. When electrical changes are made without expanding the panel, double taps can appear.
DIY Work or Unpermitted Modifications
Previous owners may have added outlets, lights, or external features without realizing that a breaker cannot safely hold two wires. These shortcuts are often uncovered during real estate inspections.
Limited Space in Older Panel Designs
Older panels provide fewer slots and fewer expansion options. When homeowners or contractors face a full panel, the temptation to combine wires under one breaker increases.
These patterns explain why double-tapping is one of the most frequently documented electrical findings throughout the Orlando area.
How Inspectors Identify a Double-Tapped Breaker
Double taps are identified during the electrical panel inspection, which is part of a standard home inspection, commercial inspection, or four-point inspection.
Inspectors look for:
Two wires under one terminal screw: This is the clearest sign. Most breakers are listed for one conductor only.
Breaker labeling: Some breakers are approved for two wires, but this is uncommon. These breakers are labeled clearly. Inspectors check the labeling to determine whether the setup is allowed.
Wire size and placement: If the wires are different sizes or appear misaligned under the screw, it confirms the connection is not installed correctly.
Signs of strain on the terminal: Visible shifting, bent copper, or a wire slipping to one side indicate the terminal is not holding both wires evenly.
Overall panel condition: Double taps often appear in panels that are aging, full, or altered over time. Inspectors note these patterns because they help explain why the issue formed.
An inspector’s goal is not only to identify the double tap but to help the homeowner understand what it means and what steps usually follow.
Why a Double-Tapped Breaker Is a Safety Risk
A double-tapped breaker is a safety risk because the connection is unstable, which can lead to overheating, arcing, or electrical failure.
With two wires under one screw, the pressure is uneven. A loose wire is one of the most common causes of resistance and heat buildup in a panel, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International.
Overheating at the Breaker Terminal
As resistance increases, the terminal can heat up. Heat damages wire insulation and may damage surrounding components.
Arcing Risk
The National Fire Protection Association explains that arcing can reach temperatures high enough to ignite surrounding materials. A loose double tap creates the kind of unstable contact where arcing can occur.
Breaker Malfunction
If the connection is compromised, the breaker may not sense a fault correctly. A breaker that does not trip on time creates a higher risk of electrical fire or equipment damage.
Double-tapped breakers are not always in failure mode when discovered, but they have the right conditions to become a problem if not corrected.
What Usually Happens After a Double-Tap Is Found?
When an inspector finds a double-tapped breaker, the next step is to have a licensed electrician correct the connection. The electrician chooses the proper method based on the breaker type, panel age, and available space.
Typical next steps include:
Separating the two wires onto separate breakers
Installing a breaker that is listed for two wires, if the panel allows
Adding a sub-panel if the main panel is full
Evaluating whether other panel upgrades are needed
The inspector’s role is to identify the condition and explain why it matters. The electrician determines the safest correction.
Other Questions Homeowners Often Have
These questions help support internal linking across CFBI’s electrical and structural content.
Why are electrical panels inspected during a four-point inspection? Insurance companies rely on four-point inspections to confirm that the electrical system is safe and working as intended.
Can outdated wiring cause similar problems? Yes. Older wiring types can loosen or degrade, creating risks that inspectors often explain in detail during the electrical portion of the inspection.
Does panel age affect home insurance? In many cases, yes. Some insurers have age limits for panels or require documentation when problems are present.
You want a full evaluation of the panel, wiring, and electrical safety
You need documentation for repairs or home maintenance
Inspectors identify the issue, explain the safety concerns, and help you understand what should happen next.
Call a licensed electrician when:
A double-tapped breaker has been confirmed
You see signs of heat, corrosion, or repeated breaker tripping
The panel is full or appears outdated
New electrical equipment needs to be added
You want the defect corrected safely
Electricians perform the actual repair and confirm that the system is updated correctly.
Conclusion
A double-tapped breaker is a simple wiring error with real safety impact. It appears when two wires share a breaker terminal that was designed for one, and it is one of the most common issues inspectors find in Central Florida homes.
Understanding what a double-tapped breaker is, why it forms, and what steps follow helps homeowners stay informed and make safe decisions about their electrical system.
Central Florida Building Inspectors identify these conditions clearly so homeowners know what is happening inside the panel and what next steps to expect from an electrician.
Perhaps the time has come for you to remodel the home you are in, or it could be that you want to purchase a home, either way it’s essential that you know everything there is to know about the property in question.
In most cases, you might simply overlook small issues and see them as minor and irrelevant problems. However, it is the small issues that can have the most serious of consequences on your health.
Here is something significant for you to consider, if your home was built before 1989, there is a chance the home could have been built with materials made with asbestos.
Asbestos was widely used by many companies in their building materials in the past e.g. roofing materials, vinyl floor tiles, and drywall joint filler compound. It added strength and it provided excellent resistance to heat. It was unknown to them the long-term harm.
Asbestos has been found to be extremely harmful to your health, and could cause mesothelioma cancer via airborne spores inhaled into the lungs. Asbestos damage to your health is not noticeable right away; most cases sufferers feel the affects 20-50 years after actually ingesting the Asbestos fibers.
If your home is older and it concerns you, or you are concerned about the property you wish to buy, contact a licensed home inspector and ask about the next step to identifying if there is an issue. Remember, this is regarding homes built before 1989, since that time the use of Asbestos in materials has been banned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
It is not easy to spot products or materials that have asbestos in them, speak to an experienced inspector. They have the industry knowledge needed to give the best advice to relieve your worries.
Make yours and your family’s health a priority; get in touch with a professional affiliated home inspection company today.
Human waste is generally a topic that people avoid, that is until something goes wrong with the septic system. There is nothing worse for a homeowner then dealing with a backed up septic system. As a homeowner, or soon-to-be-homeowner, you need to know that the maintenance of the septic is entirely up to you.
According to EPA.gov it states, “If your septic system isn’t maintained, you might need to replace it, costing you thousands of dollars.” The quickest way of knowing if the septic system is in good, working order is to have an inspection performed.
The septic system is made up of four major components that all need to work properly to maintain a productive and effective way of treatment for household wastewater. The first component is the pipe attached to the home that allows the wastewater to exit and enter the septic tank.
The second component is the septic tank, where the wastewater flows. The septic tank allows the waste to form into a sludge, and oil/grease to rise to top, and typically has screens to prevent the sludge/scum from entering into the drain field.
The drain field is the third component of the septic system. Many states are requiring homes now have a reserve drain field. The drain field is where the wastewater exits from the septic tank. If the drain field clogs or backs up, it causes flooding and waste to rise to the ground surface. It also keeps the wastewater from necessary treatment.
The last component is soil and is the final treatment of the wastewater. It is at the soil stage where treatment removes the most harmful substances like bacteria or viruses.
When should the homeowner or homeowner-to-be have the septic system inspected? If a first time homebuyer, then it is necessary that the inspection be done before signing the property contract. Once a contract is signed, then the responsibility and cost of septic problems will become the responsibility of the new owner. If a homeowner already, then the EPA recommends that in order to keep a healthy maintained system, a professional should inspect it every 3 years.
If the home has an alternative septic system that includes an electrical float switch, it needs inspection at least once a year. Overall, the septic system is one of the most important parts of a home, and should be maintained and inspected regularly. The main reason it should be inspected is because not only will it help on cost savings from replacement, it ensures that it will not cause any health risks due to working improperly.
A professional home inspection service is a thorough examination of the property that you are wanting to buy. The beauty about a professional home inspector is that he or she are incredibly picky in their assessment and give an accurate account of that potential home. Being experienced and skilled in their field of expertise has many benefits to the buyer and even the seller of the intended property property. A certified and experienced inspector is trained to pick up on structural problems that would, in other cases, be disregarded if an inspection was never requested.
When you are wanting to buying a home it is crucial that you pay attention to every detail and each decision made. Contractual wording that might lead to future issues need your attention, the location of your home needs attention (is it in a flood zone), and one of the most important decisions is the home inspection service. This is possibly the most important decision to make regarding the purchasing of a home.
Although, a home inspection service is not a requirement included in the home buying process it not recommended to omit it. Here is why, the results that a thorough inspection brings, peace of mind that you are making the right purchase decision. This is an overview of what is inspected at the time of pre-purchase, view a report example here or click on the image.
The advantage of having a fully completed report can give you just what is needed to request a different asking price, after showing the seller the findings. Seller can fix all the repairs, or allow you enough money to fix the repairs yourself.
The best thing is to not rush into everything when buying a home. Explore every possible avenue available, this is a huge investment be smart, and make the best decisions and factual evidence regarding the property. A home inspection may cost a good few hundred dollars, but it is money well spent that could prevent thousands of dollars in extra costs in the long run and that is good news in any language.
