If you live in an upper-floor apartment—say, on the second or third floor—it might feel like radon isn’t your problem.
After all, radon comes from the ground, right?
Yes… but it’s not quite that simple.
Let’s clear up some common misconceptions and explain why renters—even those above ground level—should still be aware of radon risks.
How Does Radon Work?
Radon gas forms underground as uranium in soil and rock breaks down. It rises up through the ground and can enter buildings through:
- Cracks in the foundation
- Gaps around pipes or drains
- Crawl spaces and basements
Once inside, it collects in enclosed spaces—especially those without good ventilation.
That’s why basement and ground-floor units are at the highest risk. But radon doesn’t always stay in the basement.
Can Radon Travel Upward?
Yes.
While radon is heaviest at lower levels, it can move through:
- Elevator shafts
- HVAC systems
- Stairwells and ductwork
- Plumbing chases and utility corridors
In multi-unit buildings, especially older ones or those with poor airflow, radon can reach second, third, or even fourth-floor apartments.
Is the Risk Lower for Upper Units?
Generally, yes—but lower risk doesn’t mean no risk.
Several factors increase the chances of radon reaching higher floors:
- Shared ventilation systems
- Stack effect (warm air rising pulls radon upward)
- Poorly sealed lower units
- High radon pressure in the soil around the building
If the building has high radon at the base, some of it can migrate upward over time.
Should I Still Test If I’m Not on the Ground Floor?
Absolutely.
The only way to know if your apartment has a safe level of radon is to test. Whether you live in a garden unit or a penthouse, testing is quick, affordable, and worth the peace of mind.
You can:
- Use a DIY test kit for a few days, then send it in for lab results
- Hire a professional testing service like EnviroPro 360 for more accurate readings and documentation
Signs You Should Definitely Test Upstairs Units:
- You’re in a multi-unit building with connected ventilation
- Your neighbors on lower floors have tested high for radon
- You’re living above an older, unsealed foundation or crawlspace
- You or your family members have a history of respiratory issues or cancer concerns
How Often Should I Test My Apartment?
- Test once every 2 years for ongoing safety
- Re-test if you’ve changed apartments or HVAC systems
- Re-test if any mitigation system has been added or modified in the building
And always test before signing a long-term lease—especially in areas like Georgia and the Carolinas, where radon is known to be a regional concern.
What If Radon Is Detected Upstairs?
Don’t panic—radon problems can be fixed. Options include:
- Sealing entry points at the base of the building
- Installing radon mitigation systems (vents and fans)
- Improving building ventilation or HVAC circulation
These are usually your landlord’s responsibility, so bring up the results and discuss next steps. If they won’t act, you may have legal options depending on your lease and local laws.
Don’t Assume You’re in the Clear
Just because you’re renting an upstairs unit doesn’t mean you’re immune to radon. The gas can travel—and it doesn’t care what floor you’re on.
Play it safe. Test your space.
Knowing your radon level is the first step toward protecting your health.
Need Radon Testing for Any Floor?
Whether you’re on the ground floor or the third, EnviroPro 360 offers certified radon testing for renters and property managers in Augusta, Georgia and the Carolinas. Schedule a test and stay safe.
EnviroPro 360 – Safe Environment Begins with Us.
