What to expect during a multi-family radon test

You’ve been informed that the building you live in is conducting a radon test. This page is dedicated to educating you on what to expect.

Lung Radon will respect your home and appreciate your cooperation during radon testing. Please follow all instructions, allow access for technicians, and avoid moving or tampering with test devices to ensure accurate results. Working together, we can create a safer living environment for everyone in the building.

From notification to picking up the test - here’s what to expect

This is what a radon test kit attached to a wall looks like.

Step 1: Notification - Your landlord or property manager will inform all tenants about upcoming radon testing.

Step 2: Placement of Radon Test Devices - A certified radon professional will place radon test kits in designated units..

Step 3: Testing Period - Radon tests need to remain undisturbed for at least 48 hours.

Step 4: Test Collection & Lab Analysis - After the testing period, a professional will collect the devices and send them to a lab for analysis.

Step 5: Receiving Results & Next Steps - Results are typically available within a week. A report will be provided to the individual who requested the test, not individual tenants.

Answers to Multi-Family FAQ

  • Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless.

  • Radon can enter homes through cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, sump pumps, and other openings in the structure. It can also be present in well water and released into the air when water is used.

  • Radon is dangerous because it can accumulate in enclosed spaces like homes and buildings. When inhaled, it can damage lung tissue and increase the risk of lung cancer, especially with long-term exposure.

  • The EPA recommends taking action if radon levels in your home are 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher. Lower levels are preferable, but any level of radon carries some risk.

  • Just because a radon test is being performed, doesn’t mean your building has high levels of radon. The test is being performed to determine the radon level in your building.

  • Key stakeholders are provided a report that shows the radon levels in all units where valid test results are obtained. The report provides recommendations based on the radon levels determined and the key stakeholders will determine the next actionable steps. Typically, a radon mitigation system can be installed.

  • A radon mitigation system is a specialized system designed to reduce radon gas levels inside a building.

    • Absorbing Radon Gas

      • The test device contains activated charcoal, which absorbs radon gas from the air.

      • As radon naturally decays, it releases radioactive particles that the charcoal traps.

    • Placing the Test in the Unit

      • The test is strategically placed in the unit based on NRPP standards

    • Exposure Period

      • The device remains in place for a minimum of 48 hours depending on the test type.

      • Residents should maintain closed conditions (keeping windows and exterior doors closed except for normal use) to get the most accurate results.

    • Sending the Test to a Lab

      • After the test period, the device is sealed and sent to a certified lab for analysis.

      • The lab measures the radon concentration in picocuries per liter (pCi/L) and provides a report with the results.

  • Results are reported to the key stake holders who requested the tests to be performed, not directly to the tenant. It is up to the key stakeholders to provide tenants with individual results of their test.

  • Simply pick the test up and adhere it back to the wall.

  • The sole purpose of the test is to test for radon. It does not test for anything else.

Learn more at

Radon Academy

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