If you are worried about radon in your rental and your landlord will not help, you are not alone. Many renters wonder if they are allowed to test for radon on their own, and the short answer is:
Yes, in most cases you can.
Here is a breakdown of what you can do, how to do it safely, and when it is worth involving your landlord.
Why Test for Radon in the First Place?
Radon is a silent danger. It is an odorless, colorless gas that forms underground and can seep into buildings, particularly lower levels like basements or ground-floor apartments. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, long-term radon exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, affecting both smokers and non-smokers.
Unfortunately, landlords in Georgia and South Carolina are not legally required to test for radon. If they have not done it or refuse to, you may be the only one monitoring the air quality in your own home.
Are Renters Allowed to Test for Radon?
Generally, yes.
As a tenant, you have the right to check the air quality in your living space unless your lease specifically prohibits it (which is rare).
That said, you should:
- Use non-invasive testing methods
- Avoid altering or damaging the property
- Keep a record of your actions and results
If you follow these steps, you can test without needing formal permission.
How to Test for Radon in Your Apartment
You have two main options:
- At-Home Test Kits
These are affordable and relatively simple. Place the detector in the lowest livable level of your apartment, such as your living room or bedroom, and leave it undisturbed for the required period. Then mail it to a lab for analysis. - Professional Testing
Companies like EnviroPro 360 offer fast, accurate radon testing using calibrated equipment. If you are unsure about using a kit or want reliable documentation, professional testing is the better option.
Testing during colder months or when windows are kept closed produces more accurate readings, as radon levels tend to rise in sealed homes.
Should You Tell Your Landlord?
It depends on the situation.
If you are on good terms and expect a cooperative response, involving your landlord early is a reasonable approach. A proactive landlord may offer to cover testing costs or follow up with professional mitigation if results are elevated.
If they have already dismissed your concerns, testing on your own and presenting documented results later may be the better approach.
What Happens If You Find High Radon Levels?
If your results show 4.0 pCi/L or higher, that is the EPA action level. At that point, action is warranted.
Here is what to do next:
- Document everything: Test results, testing method, and dates.
- Contact your landlord: Present your findings and ask what steps they are willing to take to reduce radon levels.
- Request professional mitigation: This typically involves installing a system that vents radon gas safely outside.
- Review your lease terms: If your landlord refuses to act, check whether your lease includes a habitability clause that may apply.
Can Testing Without Permission Backfire?
It is unlikely, but it is still worth approaching the situation carefully.
Do not drill holes, alter HVAC systems, or cause any damage during testing. Doing so could give your landlord legal grounds to raise concerns.
Use temporary, non-invasive test kits or hire a professional who will not need to alter the property.
You Are Taking Charge of Your Health
Renting does not mean giving up your right to a healthy home. You may not be able to renovate or install permanent systems, but you can monitor the air quality in your living space.
Testing for radon is a responsible step. If your landlord will not arrange testing, you are well within your rights to do it yourself.
Professional Radon Testing for Renters in Augusta and the CSRA
EnviroPro 360 offers professional radon testing for renters across Augusta, Aiken, Evans, Grovetown, and surrounding areas of Georgia and South Carolina. Testing is fast, accurate, and non-invasive.
Contact EnviroPro 360 to schedule testing for your apartment.
