Radon Testing in New York’s Capital Region
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas found in soil and rock. It can enter a home through cracks, joints, and other openings in floors and foundation walls and may accumulate indoors. Because radon cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, testing is the only way to determine whether an elevated level is present. Aim High Home Inspection Services provides laboratory-analyzed radon testing for home buyers, homeowners, and other property owners throughout New York’s Capital Region and surrounding areas.
What Radon Testing Includes
Radon testing is usually performed in the lowest level of the home using charcoal canisters. Testing requires a minimum of 48 hours and may continue for up to 144 hours under closed-house conditions. Once the test period is complete, the canisters are sealed and sent to an independent laboratory for analysis. After the results are received and reviewed, the radon report is emailed to you with a clear explanation of the findings and recommended next steps when appropriate. Radon testing is available with a home inspection or as a standalone service.
Understanding Your Radon Results
Radon concentrations are measured and reported in picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L), which indicates the amount of radon present in the indoor air. The laboratory result represents the average concentration measured during the test period rather than a year-round average. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and New York State Department of Health recommend taking steps to reduce radon at 4.0 pCi/L or higher, and reduction may also be considered between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L. Because radon levels can change with weather, season, ventilation, and other conditions, the result should be understood within the limitations of a short-term test. When an elevated level is reported, evaluation by a qualified radon mitigation contractor is recommended.
When Radon Testing Is Recommended
Radon testing is recommended when buying a home, when a home has never been tested, and at least every five years thereafter. Retesting is also recommended after major renovations or weatherization work, when a lower level begins being used as living space, and after a radon mitigation system is installed. Homes with mitigation systems should generally be retested every two years, with an initial post-mitigation test completed within 30 days of installation.
Radon Testing FAQs
Find answers to common questions about radon health concerns, when testing is recommended, testing procedures, closed-house conditions, and result interpretation.
What is radon, and why is it a health concern?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can enter a home through openings in the foundation. It cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, so testing is the only way to determine the indoor concentration. Long-term exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, with greater risk at higher concentrations and for people who smoke. The EPA identifies radon as the second-leading cause of lung cancer overall and the leading cause among nonsmokers. Reducing elevated radon levels can help limit long-term exposure.
When should a home be tested for radon?
The New York State Department of Health recommends testing a home for radon every five years. Homes with a radon mitigation system should be retested every two years to confirm the system remains effective. Retesting is also recommended after significant remodeling, weatherization, foundation work, or changes in how lower levels of the home are occupied.
What does a radon test include?
A radon test uses two charcoal canisters placed side by side, preferably on the lowest level suitable for occupancy. If that area cannot be tested, the canisters are placed in another appropriate accessible location. They remain undisturbed under closed-house conditions for the required testing period, then are sealed and submitted to a qualified laboratory. The laboratory reports each result and the average radon concentration in picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L).
How long does a radon test take?
A short-term radon test remains in place for 48 to 144 hours, as specified for the charcoal canisters used. Closed-house conditions must be maintained throughout the testing period. After collection, the canisters are sealed and submitted to the laboratory for analysis.
What are closed-house conditions?
Closed-house conditions require all exterior doors and windows to remain closed throughout the testing period, except for normal entry and exit. Heating and cooling systems may operate normally, but equipment that brings outdoor air into the home should not be used. The charcoal canisters must remain in their original location and undisturbed until collected.
What do radon test results mean?
Radon results are reported in picocuries per liter of air (pCi/L). The EPA recommends radon mitigation when the average test result is 4.0 pCi/L or higher and advises considering mitigation when results are between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L. Because no level of radon exposure is considered completely risk-free, lower results do not indicate the absence of radon. Evaluation by a qualified radon mitigation contractor is recommended for results of 4.0 pCi/L or higher and may also be considered when a property owner wishes to reduce radon at a lower measured level.
Areas We Serve
Aim High Home Inspection Services provides laboratory-analyzed short-term radon testing throughout the Capital Region and surrounding areas.
Albany • Schenectady • Troy • Saratoga Springs • Rotterdam • Guilderland • Colonie • Clifton Park • Ballston Spa • Rensselaer • Amsterdam • Schoharie • Cobleskill • Greenville • Hoosick Falls
Don’t see your town listed? Call or text (518) 330-2772 to confirm availability.
Schedule a Radon Test
Call or text (518) 330-2772 to schedule radon testing with a home inspection or as a standalone service.