When to test for radon

Test for radon if no action has ever been taken

It’s essential to prioritise places where no measurement has ever been made, even if your property is located outside of a so-called ‘risk’ area. You can find elevated radon levels in any building regardless of the location. Every building (homes and workplaces) in the UK must be tested for radon. In the case of workplaces located in risk areas, the test is mandatory according to the HSE.

Test for radon every ten years

It is important to regularly test radon levels indoors. Changes to a building’s structure such as cracks, joint ageing, blockage of ventilation systems etc. may have a significant impact on radon content.

Test for radon when buying property

There is no regulation concerning mandatory radon measurements in UK property transactions. However, it is strongly recommended that a test should be undertaken, and this be added as a clause in the sales contract. By doing this, the potential cost of any mitigation work can be negotiated between the buyer and seller. Short-term testing kits are ideal for this. Remember – caveat emptor – “buyer beware”- will normally apply, therefore responsibility for arranging any testing rests with the buyer.

Test for radon after mitigation

It’s essential to conduct follow-up testing once mitigation works have been completed.  This should then be repeated every ten years.