Real Estate Radon Testing

Radon Testing for Real Estate Transactions

A real estate radon test has to fit a short inspection schedule while still following the measurement protocol. The parties need valid placement, closed-building conditions, documented start and stop times, device security, prompt reporting, and enough time to evaluate mitigation before the inspection deadline expires.

CDPHE encourages home buyers to test during the inspection process and recommends a licensed Radon Measurement Professional using a professional-grade continuous monitor or another approved device.

Schedule a Transaction Test Tell Us the Inspection Deadline

Transaction Testing Timeline

1
Schedule immediately
Provide the address, access contact, inspection objection deadline, lowest foundation level, occupancy, and whether an existing system is present.
2
Prepare closed-building conditions
Windows and exterior doors remain closed except normal entry and exit for the required period. Normal heating and cooling can operate.
3
Place the approved device
The licensed measurement program selects and places the device in the lowest area that could be occupied, documents the location, and protects it from interference.
4
Complete the exposure period
Short-term test duration depends on the approved device and protocol, commonly 48 to 120 hours.
5
Retrieve and report
The device is retrieved, conditions are reviewed, and the result is issued with identifying and interpretive information.
6
Respond to an elevated result
The parties obtain a licensed mitigation proposal and decide through the contract how installation, credit, escrow, or other terms will be handled.

Where the Test Goes

For a transaction, the test is generally located in the lowest area that could be used as living space, not merely the room the current owner uses most. An unfinished basement may qualify because a future owner could occupy it.

Protecting the Validity of the Test

Do not open windows or leave exterior doors open beyond normal entry and exit
Do not move, cover, unplug, or place a fan near the device
Do not operate whole-house fans or unusual ventilation outside the protocol
Tell the measurement professional about construction, painting, flooring, HVAC work, or other activity during the test
Control access and document any suspected interference

What the Report Should Show

Property and test location
Responsible licensed measurement professional
Device type and identifying information
Start and stop date and time
Result in pCi/L
Conditions, observed deviations, or interference concerns
Recommendation based on the result and transaction purpose

When the Result Is 4.0 pCi/L or Higher

The EPA action level is 4.0 pCi/L. An elevated result does not mean the transaction must fail. Most homes can be mitigated. The next step is a written property-specific proposal from a Colorado-licensed Radon Mitigation Professional, followed by contract decisions made by the parties and their brokers.

Do not let a closing deadline push the parties toward an unlicensed installer. Schedule testing early and verify the mitigation license before authorizing work.

Drennen Real Estate Services

Licensed transaction measurement
Qualifying complimentary testing program for real estate professionals - confirm current terms
Prompt mitigation estimates and route options
Passive-system inspection and activation
Crawl-space and mixed-foundation systems
Post-mitigation testing and system documentation
Coordination with buyers, sellers, brokers, inspectors, property managers, and access contacts

Frequently Asked Questions

Protect the Deadline and the Result

Contact Drennen when the inspection is scheduled, not the day the objection is due. We will confirm availability, required conditions, access, and the reporting plan.

Schedule a Transaction Radon Test

This page is educational and does not change contract deadlines or brokerage duties. Use current Commission-approved forms and consult the managing broker or attorney for transaction-specific legal questions.

Drennen Custom Contracting | Serving Fort Collins and Northern Colorado | 970-482-9100 | [email protected]