Steps to Take If Your Home Tests Positive for Radon

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Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that naturally occurs in soil, rock, and water. When it seeps into homes—particularly through basements and crawl spaces—it can accumulate to dangerous levels. Long-term exposure to high radon levels is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, making it a serious concern for homeowners. If a radon testing kit reveals that your home has elevated radon levels, it’s important to take prompt action. Here’s what you should do next.

1. Understand the Test Results

If your radon test shows a reading of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends taking action to reduce radon levels. A result below 2 pCi/L is considered low risk, but you may still choose to take preventive steps.

For initial results near the 4 pCi/L threshold, it’s often recommended to perform a follow-up test to confirm the readings—especially if the first test was a short-term test. Radon levels can vary based on weather and season, so a long-term test (lasting 90 days or more) can offer a more accurate picture.

2. Hire a Certified Radon Professional

Dealing with high radon levels isn’t a DIY job. You should hire a certified radon mitigation specialist who understands how to assess the issue and implement an effective solution. These professionals use specialized equipment and adhere to national safety standards.

To find a certified contractor, check with your state’s radon program or refer to the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) or the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB).

3. Install a Radon Mitigation System

The most common and effective method of radon reduction is installing a radon mitigation system. This usually involves sub-slab depressurization, where a pipe and fan system draw radon gas from beneath the home and vent it safely outside. Depending on your home’s layout, other systems like crawl space ventilation or sealing cracks may also be used.

Proper installation can typically reduce radon levels by up to 99%. Most systems are quiet, energy-efficient, and require minimal maintenance.

4. Retest to Confirm Safety

After your mitigation system is installed, retesting is essential to confirm that radon levels have dropped to a safe range. This final radon testing provides peace of mind and ensures the system is functioning as expected.

Some professionals will include a follow-up test as part of the installation process. If not, be sure to conduct one within 30 days of the system’s operation.

5. Maintain Your Mitigation System

Even the best systems require occasional maintenance to remain effective. This includes:

  • Checking the warning device (usually a manometer) to confirm the system is running properly

  • Cleaning or replacing the fan filter if applicable

  • Listening for unusual noises that may indicate mechanical issues

Most radon fans last five to ten years. Schedule routine checks and know when to replace worn parts to avoid gaps in protection.

6. Inform Future Buyers

If you plan to sell your home, disclose any history of radon issues and provide documentation of mitigation steps taken. Buyers often appreciate transparency, especially when you’ve already installed a functioning system. It can even be a selling point, showing that you’ve addressed a serious health concern proactively.

7. Test Annually

Even with a mitigation system in place, radon levels can fluctuate over time. It’s a good idea to test your home for radon every year, especially after any major home renovations or changes to HVAC systems.

Finding out your home has high radon levels can be alarming, but it’s also manageable. With professional radon mitigation and regular monitoring, you can significantly reduce the risk to your family’s health. Early detection through radon testing is key, and taking swift action helps ensure a safer, healthier living environment.