You move into a rental, settle in, and then find out your home has dangerous levels of radon. Now what? Can you break your lease? Can your landlord be held responsible?
Here is what you need to know if you are renting in Georgia or South Carolina and just discovered high radon levels.
What Is Radon, and Why Is It a Problem?
Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that seeps into homes from the ground below. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. Regardless of whether you own or rent, radon exposure is dangerous.
In Georgia and South Carolina, many areas have moderate to high radon risk, including Augusta, Aiken, and Greenville.
Is Your Landlord Legally Required to Test for Radon?
In most cases, landlords are not required by law in Georgia or South Carolina to test for radon or disclose radon levels in rental homes or apartments.
The situation does carry legal implications, however:
- If the home is tested and high levels are found, the landlord could be held liable for not addressing a known health hazard.
- If you ask for testing and are denied, it may raise questions about how the landlord handles other health and safety issues in the property.
What Are Your Rights as a Renter?
If your rental property tests above the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L, you have a few options:
1. Request Mitigation
Ask your landlord in writing to address the issue. Share the test results and request a professional radon mitigation system.
2. Withhold Rent? Be Careful.
Some renters try to withhold rent to force action, but this can backfire legally. Always consult a tenant rights group or legal professional before taking this step.
3. Breaking the Lease
If radon levels are dangerously high and your landlord refuses to address the issue, you may be able to terminate your lease based on the property being unsafe or uninhabitable.
Each case is different, so documentation is essential:
- Independent radon test results
- Communication history with your landlord
- Photos, expert reports, or other evidence of risk
What If the Landlord Does Not Accept the Results?
You are allowed to arrange your own testing even if the landlord insists it is unnecessary. A certified radon testing company like EnviroPro 360 provides trusted, accurate results from inspectors with years of experience serving the Southeast.
Protect Yourself Before You Sign
If you have not moved in yet, ask about radon before signing the lease. You can request:
- A recent radon test report
- Permission to test the space yourself
- A clause in your lease requiring mitigation if high levels are found
Do Not Wait for Symptoms
Radon does not cause immediate symptoms. Cumulative exposure over months and years is what increases lung cancer risk. If you suspect elevated levels or want documented baseline results for your rental, schedule testing now.
EnviroPro 360: Radon Testing for Renters in Georgia and South Carolina
EnviroPro 360 helps renters and landlords across Georgia and South Carolina get accurate answers. With certified radon testing, affordable service, and fast turnaround, our inspectors have built a reputation for reliable results across the Southeast.
Contact EnviroPro 360 to schedule radon testing for your rental.
