Hi Laura,You absolutely can do the survey approach, but to Zack's point it is way more risk than its worth and, in the vast majority of cases, better left to a professional. 

Not sure I'd personally buy a property that has a radon issue, but I've worked on large MF deals that build and rent anyway.

Call the number on the letter, if you/your parent has trouble with talking to them due to a language issue ask for a translator.

Hi - not missing anything, this is a very common issue. 

But it does happen. the major risk is to the person you bought the home from. its their credit at risk.and of course if you put any down payment that would be at risk as well if things got bad.when you go into these deals you need to know if the bank does call the note that you can refinance and pay it all off or you have the cash to retire the loan.. anything short of that and your at risk .

Additionally, I look at building code violations and or recent permits issued for the building.

I thought I need to have a local contact- someone can come within 2 hours if issues arise?

All stomach issues disappeared overnight.

This will be helpful to hopefully offset some of the lad cost issues I am facing right now. 

Apparently personal issues took place and now the GF kicked the tenant out.