EPA recommends that you know the radon level in any house you may want to buy.
See Nevada test results to understand the radon risk potential for elevated radon levels in the area you wish to purchase a home.

If the home has already been tested for radon

You can accept an earlier test result (less than two years ago) from the seller or you can ask the seller for a new test to be done by a certified radon tester. EPA recommends homes be retested every two years, after an earthquake , and before and after remodeling.

To help you make your decision, ask the seller the following questions:

  • What were the results of any earlier tests?
  • Who tested it last? The homeowner, a certified radon professional, or another person?
  • Where in the home was the test taken? Was it done on a lower level of the home that you plan to use?
  • What, if any, changes have been made to the house since the test was done? Have there been any changes to the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems? Have any new rooms been added to the home?
  • Did the test follow the Radon in Real Estate Testing Checklist recommendations?
  • When was the test was done? EPA recommends that all homes be tested every two years.

If you decide that you want a new radon test, discuss it with the seller as soon as possible.

If the home has not yet been tested for radon

Make sure that a radon test is done as early in the home buying process as possible. You may even want the sales contract to include:

  • Where in the house the test will be done.
    • EPA recommends the test be done in the lowest livable level of the home, but not in a kitchen or bathroom.
  • Who will conduct the test?
  • What type of test to use.
  • When the test will be done.
  • How the seller and the buyer will share the test results and test costs (if necessary).
  • When radon mitigation measures will be taken (at what level of radon will you require mitigation of the home?) and who will pay for them.

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