If you’re renting a home or apartment, you might assume your landlord has already taken care of any hidden dangers—like radon. But what if they haven’t? Or worse, what if they’re not required to?
Let’s clear the air (literally) and walk through what landlords are—and aren’t—obligated to do when it comes to radon testing.
What the Law Says
In Georgia and South Carolina, there are no current statewide laws requiring landlords to test for radon or to disclose radon levels to tenants. That means unless the property is in a location with specific local ordinances (which is rare), your landlord may not have tested at all.
But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
So, Are Landlords Responsible?
Legally? Usually not.
Morally and ethically? Absolutely.
Radon is an invisible, odorless gas known to cause lung cancer with long-term exposure. If you’re living in a basement unit, older home, or a region known to have higher radon levels—like parts of Augusta or the Carolinas—you have every right to bring up the issue with your landlord.
What You Can Do as a Renter
Here are a few practical steps if you’re concerned about radon in your rental:
- Ask Directly
“Has this property ever been tested for radon?” is a perfectly reasonable question. You deserve a straight answer. - Request Testing
If the property hasn’t been tested, ask if the landlord would be willing to arrange professional radon testing. It’s quick, affordable, and shows they care about your health. - Offer to Test It Yourself
If they say no, you can still ask for permission to bring in a radon test kit or hire a local radon testing company like EnviroPro 360. Some landlords may even reimburse you. - Know Your Rights
If you discover elevated radon levels (above 4.0 pCi/L), you may have grounds to request mitigation—or in severe cases, to terminate your lease depending on your local laws and lease terms.
Why Landlords Should Care Too
Landlords have a duty to maintain a safe and habitable living space. Even though radon might not be written into the law where you live, it could fall under broader “implied warranty of habitability” rules.
Plus, radon mitigation is a one-time investment that protects their property value, reduces liability, and builds trust with tenants. It’s a win-win.
What If They Refuse?
If your landlord refuses to test, you still have options:
- Test independently using a short-term or long-term radon test.
- Document your communication and results, just in case.
- Speak to local health departments—some offer free or discounted radon test kits.
- Consult legal aid if the results are dangerously high and you feel unsafe.
The Health Cost of Doing Nothing
Remember, the danger of radon is in the long-term exposure. Even if you don’t own the property, your lungs still live there. Over time, the risk grows.
Testing is easy. Ignoring it isn’t worth the risk.
While Georgia and South Carolina don’t currently require landlords to test for radon, you still have a voice—and the right to advocate for your health.
If your landlord won’t take action, don’t panic. You can test the property yourself or bring in a certified team like EnviroPro 360 to make sure your rental is safe.
Just because it’s a rental doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be radon-free.
Need Help Testing Your Rental for Radon?
EnviroPro 360 offers professional radon testing for renters, landlords, and property managers throughout Augusta, Georgia and the Carolinas. Contact us today and protect your peace of mind.
EnviroPro 360 – Safe Environment Begins with Us.
