Radon Gas and Home Sale Guidance

Tests during a home sale are highly recommended by EPA and state radon programs. The option for a radon inspection is normally listed in home sale contracts.
Radon gas disclosure guidance? Click here

EPA's Home Buyers & Sellers Guide:

"If you are testing in a real estate transaction and you need results quickly, any of the following three ways to conduct Short-Term Tests are acceptable for determining whether the home should be fixed."

"Any real estate test for radon should include steps to prevent or detect device interference. All short term tests should be taken for a minimum of 48 hours. A longer period is required for some devices. Tests should be performed in the lowest level of the home suitable for occupancy which is finished or does not require renovations prior to use."

(We note that basements are most often tested to protect those who may occupy those areas now or in the future.)

SHORT-TERM TESTING OPTIONS	WHAT TO DO NEXT
Active: (Continuous Monitors) Test the home with a continuous monitor for at least 48 hours.	Fix the home if the average radon level is 4 pCI/L or more.
Passive: (Charcoal Canisters, Electrets, etc) Take an initial short-term test for at least 48 hours. After the first test has been completed, take a follow-up short-term test for at least 48 hours. or Take two short-term tests at the same time in the same location for at least 48 hours.	Fix the home if the average of the two tests is 4 pCI/L or more.

If time permits, long-term tests (more than 90 days) can be used to confirm initial short term results between 4 pCi/L and 8 pCi/L. When long-term test results are 4 pCi/L or higher, EPA recommends fixing the home.

NOTE: Information provided here is
intended to be simplistic in description.