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How to Schedule Radon Testing for Real Estate

Cute Robot at Tahoe schedules Radon test

Scheduling your Radon test should part of your real estate transaction when buying or selling your home. This cute little robot encourages you to put Radon testing on the calendar. This robot and friends brighten our guide with a cheerful spirit, even as we tackle the serious topic of Radon in homes at Tahoe.

Before You Begin

This page continues our discussion about ensuring valid Radon testing during real estate transactions. If you have not yet read the prior page, use the "Previous" button at the bottom of this page to go back.

What Length of Time to Allow for Radon Testing

Because Radon levels naturally fluctuate from day to day and season to season, and because there are two main categories of testing: short-term and long-term, you may probably want to schedule a short-term test for your real estate transaction. Short-term tests provide quick results and are commonly used in real estate transactions, even though long-term tests provide a more accurate picture of year-round Radon levels.

If you need results quickly, such as during a home purchase, a short-term test is the practical choice. Long-term tests are ideal for homeowners who want a more complete understanding of their home's Radon levels over time.

Let's review short-term vs long-term testing for Radon...

Short-Term Testing

Short-term tests are the fastest option and are widely used in real estate transactions. These tests typically run from 2 to 7 days, depending on the device. Some devices can run up to 90 days, but the most common real-estate-friendly tests are in the 48- to 96-hour range. (Sources: Radon 1; Inspection Professionals)

Short-term tests include two groups of devices:

Passive devices: charcoal canisters, alpha-track detectors, charcoal liquid scintillation devices, and electret ion chambers.
Active devices: continuous Radon monitors that record hourly or minute-by-minute readings.

Short-term tests are ideal for real estate because they fit within typical inspection deadlines and provide reliable results when performed under closed-house conditions.

Long-Term Testing

Long-term tests run for more than 90 days and may extend up to a full year. Alpha-track detectors and electret ion chambers are commonly used for this type of testing.

A long-term test provides the most accurate estimate of your home's year-round Radon level because it captures seasonal variations. If time allows, long-term tests can confirm borderline short-term results. When long-term results are at or above 4.0 pCi/L, the EPA recommends fixing the home.

Minimum Time Required for Any Radon Test

Whether you test for Radon yourself or hire a qualified tester, all Radon tests must run for at least 48 hours to be valid. Some devices require longer minimum periods, such as certain charcoal canisters that need a full 7-day exposure.

Mail-In DIY Tests vs. Professional Testing

DIY Mail-In Tests

DIY short-term kits typically run for 2 to 7 days. After the exposure period, you mail the device to a certified lab. Depending on shipping time and lab processing, results may take several additional days to arrive. This means the total turnaround time for a DIY test is often 5 to 10 days, depending on mail speed and lab workload.

Professional Testing

Professional Radon testers typically use continuous Radon monitors that run for 48 to 96 hours. Because the device is retrieved in person and the data is downloaded immediately, results are often available the same day the device is picked up. This makes professional testing the fastest option for real estate deadlines.

Which Should You Choose?

DIY mail-in test: inexpensive, accurate, but slower due to mailing and lab processing.
Professional test: faster turnaround, tamper detection, and ideal for real estate timelines.

More About Radon Testing for Real Estate Transactions

For more details to consider for Radon testing during a real estate transaction, continue exploring this Radon at Tahoe guide using the navigation links below.

Find out if you have Radon...

Corentium radon detector
Corentium Home Radon Detector
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About Our Radon at Tahoe Series

This Radon at Tahoe series uses the EPA's Home Buyer's and Seller's Guide to Radon as its inspiration and a source, adding personal experiences and even a bit of colorful charm with Renny and the Radon Robot Crew illustrating important concepts while addressing the serious topic of Radon in homes. Some parts of this multi-page review of the EPA Guide to Radon are with permission under public domain and creative commons. Usage: Category Education; License: Creative Commons Attribution license (reuse allowed). By getting Radon detection and Radon mitigation, you can live more healthfully amidst the beauty of Lake Tahoe.