Understanding Radon in Wisconsin: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

Radon in Motion: A Video Guide

How Radon Enters Our Homes & Why It's a Health Hazard

What follows is a comprehensive guide to radon specifically crafted for Wisconsin's higher than normal radon concentrations. We go into each of the subjects above in more depth plus much more.

PureTech Home Services is dedicated to helping homeowners across south central Wisconsin with radon understand and mitigate this vital issue. At any point you can discuss your concerns directly or book an appointment with us by clicking the button below.

Book Appointment

The Unseen Threat: What is Radon Gas
and Why is it Dangerous?

Radon is a silent, invisible, and odorless radioactive gas that poses a significant public health risk to homeowners across Wisconsin. Formed from the natural decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water, radon gas can seep into homes through various entry points, accumulating to dangerous levels undetected without specialized radon testing. As the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers, responsible for an estimated 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually in the U.S., understanding and addressing radon is crucial for family health.

Radon (Rn) is a heavy noble gas. Since radon is chemically inert, it does not react with other substances; however, it emits ionizing radiation (alpha particles) as it decays.

Key Characteristics of Radon

Colorless, Odorless, Tasteless: Radon is invisible and undetectable by human senses.

Source: It originates from the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and some building materials, including granite and concrete.

Physical Behavior: Being denser than air, radon tends to pool in low-lying areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and ground-level living areas, seeping through even tiny cracks or gaps in foundations.

Worldwide Presence: Radon exists everywhere, but its concentrations vary dramatically based on local geology and building practices.

The primary concern with radon is its radioactivity: once inhaled, radon progeny (decay products like polonium-218 and polonium-214) attach to lung cells and continuously release alpha particles. Over prolonged exposure, this radiation can damage lung tissue and DNA, leading to severe health impacts.

Interestingly, radon is not talked about as much as you would expect given its prevalence and proven danger to public health. Many are not even aware of its existence. This despite radon being the greatest single source of radiation exposure for the general public.

Health Risks of Radon Exposure: Protecting Your Family's Lungs

The health hazard from radon arises from inhaling its radioactive decay products, which emit alpha radiation directly into lung cells over prolonged periods.

Note: You will see the use of pCi/L measure many times in this guide. This is short for picocuries per liter of air, and is the standard unit of measurement for the US radon agencies and industry.

Key Health Impacts

Lung Cancer: Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer overall, and tragically, the leading cause among non-smokers. Studies indicate that the risk of lung cancer increases significantly with higher and more prolonged exposure. Continual exposure to even low-to-moderate levels can elevate lifetime lung cancer risk.

Synergistic Risk for Smokers: For individuals who smoke, exposure to high radon levels compounds risk. Smoking and radon exposure leads to a far greater lung cancer risk than either factor alone. Combining smoking cessation with radon mitigation yields the greatest reduction in lung cancer incidence.

No "Safe" Threshold: There is no definitive "safe" radon level. However, national and international health organizations (including the EPA and WHO) recommend taking action when indoor levels exceed specific thresholds. In the U.S., the EPA action level is 4 pCi/L while they still suggest considering mitigation above 2 pCi/L. The WHO's action level is 2.7 pCi/L.

Wisconsin-Specific Impact: Because most people spend approximately 70% of their time indoors—often in basements or ground-level living spaces—radon exposure accumulates over time and can cause lung cancer. "Lung cancer is by far the leading cause of cancer deaths, accounting for 1 in 5 of all cancer deaths in the U.S. In Wisconsin, lung cancer deaths outnumbered all colon, breast, and prostate cancer deaths combined."

Radon Health Risks Table

Below are the published health risk tables from the EPA's webpage on radon risks, and was calculated using EPA and CDC datasets.

Radon Level	If 1,000 people who never smoked were exposed to this level over a lifetime	The risk of cancer from radon exposure compares to	If 1,000 people who smoked were exposed to this level over a lifetime	The risk of cancer from radon exposure compares to	WHAT TO DO
20 pCi/L	About 36 people could get lung cancer	35 times the risk of drowning	About 260 people could get lung cancer	250 times the risk of drowning	Fix your home
10 pCi/L	About 18 people could get lung cancer	20 times the risk of dying in a home fire	About 150 people could get lung cancer	200 times the risk of dying in a home fire	Fix your home
8 pCi/L	About 15 people could get lung cancer	4 times the risk of dying in a fall	About 120 people could get lung cancer	30 times the risk of dying in a fall	Fix your home
4 pCi/L	About 7 people could get lung cancer	The risk of dying in a car crash	About 62 people could get lung cancer	5 times the risk of dying in a car crash	Fix your home
2 pCi/L	About 4 person could get lung cancer	The risk of dying from poison	About 32 people could get lung cancer	6 times the risk of dying from poison	Consider fixing between 2 and 4 pCi/L (75-150 Bq/m3)
1.3 pCi/L	About 2 people could get lung cancer	(Average indoor radon level)	About 20 people could get lung cancer	(Average indoor radon level)	Reducing radon levels below 2 pCi/L is difficult
0.4 pCi/L		(Average outdoor radon level)	About 3 people could get lung cancer	(Average outdoor radon level)

How Radon Enters Homes: Understanding the Pathways

Radon gas migrates from the soil into indoor air primarily through the path of least resistance, driven by pressure differentials between the soil and your home.

Pressure Differentials ("Stack Effect"): During colder months, a phenomenon known as the "stack effect" often increases indoor radon levels. Warmed indoor air rises and escapes from upper levels, creating a negative pressure zone at the foundation level. This negative pressure acts like a vacuum, drawing radon-laden soil gas directly into lower floors. Modern, energy-efficient homes, while great for insulation, can inadvertently increase radon levels by reducing natural ventilation and accentuating this pressure differential.

Foundation Cracks: Even small cracks in concrete slabs or poured foundations can draw radon gas in.

Floor-Wall Joints: The seam where the concrete slab meets the foundation walls.

Sump Pump Pits & Drains: Open sump wells, floor drains, and drains.

Hollow-Block Walls: Uncapped concrete block cores and unsealed mortar joints in block foundations.

Utility Penetrations: Gaps and unsealed openings around plumbing pipes, electrical conduits, and HVAC ductwork where they pass through the foundation.

Exposed Soil in Crawl Spaces: Unsealed, exposed soil in crawl spaces allows radon to easily enter the home's air.

Building Materials (Less Common): While less common, certain building materials like granite, concrete, or brick may emit very low levels of radon.

Well Water (Less Common): Private wells with high radon in water can release radon gas into indoor air during household water use.

Radon Prevalence in Wisconsin: A County-by-County Overview

Wisconsin has one of the highest radon averages in the U.S., making radon testing a critical step for nearly every homeowner. Many counties in Wisconsin routinely average greater than 50% of test results returning greater than 4.0 pCi/L.

Radon Test Results in Wisconsin
Pre-mitigation Data from the CDC

Annual Max Readings South Central WI
2021-2023

Radon readings over time in South Central Wisconsin Counties

Average Number Tests Greater Than 4.0 pCi/L
2013-2023

Radon testing results over time in all of Wisconsin

Interactive WI Radon Test Results (CDC Data)

*2023 is last year available from CDC

Statewide Statistics

Mean Radon Level: The average indoor radon level in Wisconsin is 5.7 pCi/L, which is more than four times the national average of 1.3 pCi/L.

Testing Rates: Only about 30% of Wisconsin homeowners have ever tested for radon, a figure that remains low among landlords (31%) and schools (35.1%) as well. Nor are they aware of the need for testing every 2-5 years regardless of home construction, age, or previous testing and mitigation.

Health Impact: Radon is estimated to cause around 962 lung cancer cases annually in Wisconsin alone. This is only what's confirmed.

Wisconsin Radon Zones (EPA Designations)

Zone 1 (Highest Potential): Approximately 66% of Wisconsin counties fall into this category, indicating a high likelihood that homes will exceed 4 pCi/L.

Zone 2 (Moderate Potential): The remaining counties are designated as Zone 2. No counties in Wisconsin are classified as Zone 3 (lowest zone).

Because radon distribution can vary markedly even between adjacent homes, universal radon testing is highly recommended regardless of your county or zip code.

There are several maps from national and state health services that you can use to see radon concentration results in your county based on previous pre-mitigation testing. Evaluating each shows you how the data varies across public health resources. The only consistent takeaway is Wisconsin homes continually show higher than normal radon levels in most counties.

Brief Look at Three South Central WI Counties

Dane County Radon Profile

Average Radon Level: 5.45 pCi/L
EPA Zone: Zone 1 (highest potential)
Homes Above 4 pCi/L: From Public Health Madison & Dane County: "Over the past four years, testing revealed that about half of the homes tested in Dane County had high levels of radon."
Testing Rate: Higher than the state average, indicating increased local awareness.
Most Affected Areas: Varies by local geology, with southern and central Dane County often showing elevated levels.
Primary Sources: Naturally occurring uranium in glacial till and drumlin soils.
Dane County Radon Resources

Sauk County Radon Profile

Average Radon Level: 4.92 pCi/L
EPA Zone: Zone 1Homes ≥ 4 pCi/L: 27.7% of tested homes
Testing Resources: Sauk County Public Health provides home radon test kits and guidance.
Insights: Unique karst geology in parts of Sauk County (e.g., Baraboo Hills) can create localized high radon hotspots.
Sauk County Radon Resources
Sauk Mitigation Examples

Columbia County Radon Profile

Average Radon Level: Approximately 5.56 pCi/L
EPA Zone: Zone 1
Homes ≥ 4 pCi/L: Specific percentages are not always reported, but are likely above 35%.
Columbia County Radon Resources

Radon Levels By County in Wisconsin

Below are the average (mean) numbers published per county in Wisconsin. Data from CDC.

County	Radon Avg
Adams	2.46
Ashland	2.94
Barron	4.76
Bayfield	3.36
Brown	4.7
Buffalo	5.59
Burnett	3.31
Calumet	5.31
Chippewa	6.21
Clark	3.85
Columbia	5.56
Crawford	6.44
Dane	5.45
Dodge	8.16
Door	7.4
Douglas	2.82
Dunn	5.88
Eau Claire	5.29
Florence	6.13
Fond du Lac	5.89
Forest	5.41
Grant	6.48
Green	7.75
Green Lake	7.07
Iowa	8.2
Iron	3.32
Jackson	5.12
Jefferson	4.89
Juneau	4.16
Kenosha	5.54
Kewaunee	5.57
La Crosse	4.35
Lafayette	7.9
Langlade	9.65
Lincoln	6.3
Manitowoc	4.15

County	Radon Avg
Marathon	13.74
Marinette	3.38
Marquette	2.63
Menominee	3.2
Milwaukee	4.41
Monroe	3.61
Oconto	6.24
Oneida	3.92
Outagamie	5.27
Ozaukee	4.85
Pepin	5.05
Pierce	5.38
Polk	4.59
Portage	6.23
Price	5.17
Racine	6.12
Richland	5.71
Rock	6.19
Rusk	5.13
Sauk	4.92
Sawyer	4.43
Shawano	7.22
Sheboygan	5.89
St. Croix	5.62
Taylor	4.86
Trempealeau	5.11
Vernon	6.93
Vilas	3.52
Walworth	7.11
Washburn	4.42
Washington	6.84
Waukesha	6.92
Waupaca	8.05
Waushara	3.99
Winnebago	5.85
Wood	4.78

**Data is from published CDC statewide radon reporting. Years where there were less than 10 tests turned in to respective county were removed from data set so there weren't outliers affecting the data.

***It's important to note that data varies significantly from source to source, even official ones like the EPA, CDC, and local authorities. Many cite outdated EPA data which was from the early 2000's. The CDC data cited in our tables above was the most comprehensive and recent radon reporting from an official source that we could find.

Testing for Radon in Wisconsin Homes

The first thing to emphasize is that testing results from one house to another can be quite different. The construction style, age, etc. really doesn't matter. Any home can have elevated radon issues, particularly geologically prone areas like those throughout Wisconsin.

To effectively illustrate this take a look at this map of radon test results in a Wausau, Wisconsin community from a 2006 Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey.

Radon test results survey from Wausau Wisconsin

Of note and unfortunately, they did not plot the 2.0-4.0 pCi/L homes where it's still suggested homeowners consider mitigation. Regardless, the map clearly shows why you should always test your home, and for reasons we'll explain below, consider testing multiple times or at different times throughout the year.

When and How to Test for Radon

Radon testing should be conducted under conditions that accurately represent typical occupancy to ensure reliable results.

Long-Term vs. Short-Term Testing

Long-Term Tests (91 days/3 months minimum): Depending on the device and method used, these can be quite accurate. Common types include alpha-track or electret detectors.

Short-Term Tests (2-7 days): Typically conducted with charcoal canisters or continuous radon monitors (CRM). PureTech uses professional grade and annually calibrated CRMs.

Timing for Radon Testing:
- Important to note these are generalizations. Every house is different for a variety of reasons.
- Winter (Peak Season): Homes are typically sealed tightly during colder months, which can increase radon accumulation. This makes January-March a good testing window.
- Spring/Fall: These are transitional periods with moderate radon levels.
- Summer: Increased ventilation patterns during summer can reduce basement radon levels; short-term summer tests may understate the annual average.
- Daily Fluctuations: Radon levels can vary daily based on temperature, pressure, and wind. Long-term tests are better at smoothing out these daily or weekly swings.

Environmental Factors Affecting Radon Test Results

Testing Protocol Recommendations (EPA)

Place detectors in the lowest livable area of your home (e.g., an unfinished or finished basement).

Maintain normal living conditions: Keep windows and doors closed (except for normal entry/exit) and ensure fans and HVAC systems are on normal cycles.

Avoid testing during severe weather conditions (e.g., heavy storms) as they can skew short-term results.

Accurately record the start and end times of the test, along with any relevant conditions.

If a short-term test result is ≥ 4 pCi/L, it's recommended to follow up with a long-term test to confirm the findings.

Professional Radon Testing vs. DIY Kits

While DIY radon test kits offer an accessible entry point, professional radon testing services provide significant advantages in terms of accuracy, reliability, and official recognition, particularly if you want or need accurate results in reasonably quick timeframes. There are many types of radon tests and testing devices but here is a quick overview.

DIY Radon Testing Kits

Pros: Low radon testing cost (often around $10-$25 per kit), readily available at hardware stores, online, or through local health departments. Simple placement instructions.

Cons: High potential for user error (improper placement, doors/windows left open). They typically provide a snapshot rather than continuous monitoring. Therefore, they don't show fluctuations and rather capture a maximum reading during the period. Requires mailing to a lab for analysis, with turnaround times of 2-4 weeks. Results may not be accepted for official real estate transactions.

Charcoal Canisters (passive radon testing device)

Professional Radon Testing Services (C-NRPP or Equivalent Certified Professional)

Pros: Ensures proper device placement and adheres to strict Quality Assurance/Quality Control standards (e.g., ANSI/AARST MS-QA). Utilizes continuous monitors for real-time data, which is highly recommended for real estate transactions or multi-location buildings. Provides professional interpretation of results and expert guidance on radon mitigation necessity. CRM devices (like the type PureTech utilizes) provide clear hourly reports of radon fluctuations and potential explanations.

Cons: Higher radon test cost (typically $100-$200 for a 2-7 day test) compared to DIY kits.

Continuous Radon Monitor (CRM)

Interpreting Your Radon Test Results

Understanding your radon levels is the first step toward a safer home. Here's a guide to interpreting your test results:

< 2 pCi/L: This indicates the lowest risk. Retesting every 2-5 years is recommended to monitor for any changes.

2-4 pCi/L): This is considered a moderate risk level. The EPA suggests you "consider fixing between 2 and 4 pCi/L." Of note, the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended action level is 2.7 pCi/L.

≥ 4 pCi/L: The EPA's recommended action level. Radon mitigation is strongly recommended, and retesting should be performed after the system is installed to confirm its effectiveness.

> 8 pCi/L: Immediate action is required due to a high cumulative exposure risk.

Multiple Readings: If you receive two short-term readings that differ significantly (e.g., 5 pCi/L vs. 10 pCi/L), repeat the tests or seek professional testing and interpretation. Inconsistent results may indicate improper placement, unusual environmental conditions, tampering, or other issues.

Common Radon Testing Myths Debunked

Myth 1: Opening windows improves testing accuracy.

Fact: While ventilation temporarily reduces radon levels, it does not reflect normal occupancy. Radon tests require "closed-house" conditions to accurately measure typical indoor concentrations.

Myth 2: My neighbors' test results apply to my home.

Fact: Adjacent homes can have vastly different radon levels due to variations in foundation types, soil conditions, and construction practices. Individual testing for each home is essential.

Myth 3: Modern homes are radon-proof.

Fact: Energy-efficient homes, designed to be tightly sealed, can actually trap more radon gas if proper radon-resistant construction techniques or radon mitigation systems are not implemented.

Radon Mitigation: Effective Solutions for a Safer Home

As mentioned, if your home tests at or above 4.0 pCi/L, the EPA strongly recommends taking action to reduce these levels, and suggests you consider mitigation if radon results are between 2-4.0 pCi/L. Radon mitigation is the process of safely lowering radon gas concentrations in your home.

It's important to remember that radon is extremely common in homes and can almost always be mitigated below action levels.

Overview of Radon Mitigation Techniques

The primary goal of radon abatement services is to reduce indoor radon concentrations by interrupting soil gas entry or by venting radon outdoors.

Sub-Slab Depressurization (SSD): This involves installing a PVC pipe through the concrete slab into the soil gas space beneath. A passive radon mitigation system has no fan and uses natural pressure differentials to improve radon levels in the home. An active radon mitigation system has an in-line radon fan to draw gas from beneath the slab and exhaust it safely above the roofline. This method is highly effective and typically achieves 80%-99% reduction in radon levels.

Sub-Membrane Depressurization (SMD) (for crawl spaces): A heavy plastic membrane is laid over exposed crawl-space soil. A suction pit (beneath the membrane) connects to a vent pipe and fan system to remove radon. Very effective, achieving 80%-99% radon reduction.

Drain Tile Suction: This method taps into existing perimeter drain tile systems or involves installing dedicated suction points above the drain tile. Effectiveness is high, typically achieving approximately 80% reduction.

Block-Wall Suction: Suction points are installed in hollow concrete block foundations, often by drilling holes into the block cores. Effectiveness is moderate to high, depending on the condition and sealing of the block walls.

Sealing & Caulking (Supplemental): Sealing foundation cracks, sump openings, and utility penetrations with specialized caulks or sealants helps reduce airflow. Its effectiveness is negligible on its own but does help other mitigation systems in their efficiency.

Water Aeration Systems (for private wells): These systems remove radon from well water by aerating the water before it is distributed throughout the home. Highly effective, achieving 85%-99% reduction of radon in water, which prevents secondary indoor air spikes.

Example SSD Radon Mitigation Systems

Passive vs Active Sub Slab Depressurization Radon Mitigaton System

Interior vs Exterior Active Sub Slab Depressurization Radon Mitigation System

Typical Radon Mitigation Costs in Wisconsin and Influencing Factors

Radon mitigation costs vary based on the method, home size, foundation type, and local labor rates. Radon mitigation in south-central Wisconsin counties should typically range from $1,500-$2,500.

Factors Influencing Mitigation Cost

Home Size & Layout: Larger homes (e.g., ≥ 2,000 sq ft) or those with multiple foundation types (e.g., a slab combined with a crawl space) may require multiple suction points and longer vent piping, increasing costs.

Basement Finish: If your basement is finished, additional labor will be required to reroute drywall, conceal piping, and restore finishes, potentially adding costs.

Foundation Type: Block foundations sometimes require drilling into block cores and thorough sealing afterward, which can be more costly than SSD on a slab-on-grade foundation.

System Complexity: More complex systems, such as those with multi-level suction fans, high static head fans, or additional monitoring gauges, can increase component costs.

Selecting a Certified Radon Mitigation Contractor

Choosing the right radon mitigation company is critical for ensuring effective and safe installation. Here's what to look for:

Certifications: Always look for certified radon mitigation specialists with credentials from the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) or the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB). Certified professionals adhere to strict industry standards (e.g., ANSI/AARST protocols), ensuring a quality installation.

Warranties: Reputable radon contractors typically provide warranties of 2-5 years on equipment and 1-2 year workmanship guarantees. PureTech offers a 5-year limited warranty.

Check references, reviews, Better Business Bureau ratings

Obtain a written quote. These should detail the scope of the radon mitigation systems and any warranty terms.

Ongoing Operating Costs & Maintenance of a Radon System

Once installed, a radon mitigation system requires minimal ongoing maintenance, but it's important to be aware of the associated costs and checks:

Electricity: The continuous operation of the radon fan typically draws approximately 50-100 watts. Annual electricity costs usually range from $75-$175 (at $0.13/kWh), depending on local electric rates and fan efficiency.

Fan Replacement: High-quality radon fans are designed for continuous operation and typically last 5-8 years. Replacement costs generally range from $150-$300.

Manometer Monitoring: A simple U-tube manometer provides a visual indication that the system is creating negative pressure under the slab. Homeowners should periodically check this gauge to ensure the reading is within the manufacturer's recommended range. If the manometer indicates a system malfunction (e.g., no pressure difference), contact your radon contractor for a fan or piping inspection.

Annual Inspection: Some radon mitigation companies offer annual inspection services, often included in extended warranties, to check the fan housing, electrical connections, and piping

Financial Assistance & Incentives for Radon Mitigation in Wisconsin

Addressing high radon levels can be a significant investment, but various programs may offer financial assistance:

County-Level Programs: Some counties in Wisconsin (including Dane and Sauk) partner with state radon programs to offer low-interest loans, rebates, or grants for eligible low-income homeowners. Contact your local Wisconsin county health department for specific eligibility criteria and application details.

Tax Credits (Limited Availability): Occasionally, federal or state tax credits may be available for radon-resistant new construction or radon mitigation system installations. It's advisable to check IRS Publication 523 and relevant Wisconsin tax bulletins for current information as these change over time.

Special Considerations for Radon Exposure

Radon affects everyone in a home, but certain populations and unique situations warrant additional attention.

More Vulnerable Populations

Children are more vulnerable to radon exposure because they take more breaths per pound of body weight and often spend more time playing at floor level, where radon concentrations can be highest. Their developing lung tissue is also more radiosensitive, increasing their lifetime risk of lung cancer from radon.

Former or current smokers are more vulnerable due to the double dose of cancer causing agents.

Individuals with other health risks, including those who are immunocompromised, may be more vulnerable to the effects of radon exposure, as their bodies are less able to detect and eliminate early-stage cancer cells.

Household pets (dogs, cats) spend a significant amount of their time indoors, often at floor level, where radon concentrations are typically highest. While data are limited, chronic exposure to elevated radon levels may contribute to veterinary health issues, including lung disease and certain cancers.

Radon in Well Water: A Rural Homeowner's Guide

Beyond soil gas, radon can also dissolve in private well water, posing an additional pathway for exposure.

This is a significant concern for many rural homeowners in Wisconsin who depend on private wells.

Private wells drilled into radon-rich bedrock (e.g., granite) can often have elevated radon in water levels. When this water is used for household activities like showering, dishwashing, or laundry, radon gas can transfer from the water into the indoor air, contributing to the overall radon concentration.

Treatment Options for Well Water:
- Aeration Systems: These systems effectively remove radon from well water by bubbling air through the water, which causes the radon to volatilize and be safely vented outdoors. They are typically 85%-99% effective.
- Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) Filters: GAC filters can adsorb radon from water and are suitable for moderate levels (generally less than 5,000 pCi/L). However, GAC filters require periodic replacement and proper disposal of the radioactive charcoal.
- Point of entry systems such as reverse osmosis systems will most often remove radon through integration of GAC filters within the system.

Testing Well Water: Specific radon test kits designed for water samples are available. Local laboratories analyze these samples to determine radon in water levels. If levels exceed 10,000 pCi/L, treatment is strongly recommended.

How Radon from Water Enters the Home

Radon and Real Estate Transactions in Wisconsin

Radon testing and radon mitigation are increasingly important considerations during real estate transactions, influencing both buyer confidence and negotiation.

Disclosure Requirements

State Variations: While some states (e.g., Minnesota, Illinois) legally mandate sellers to disclose radon test results and radon mitigation status, Wisconsin does not have a state-level mandatory disclosure law for radon.

Ethical Considerations: Despite the lack of a legal mandate, ethical and market considerations strongly encourage sellers to voluntarily share any existing radon test results and details of any radon mitigation performed. Transparency can prevent future disputes, build buyer trust, and streamline the transaction process.

Testing Protocols for Buyers & Sellers

For Buyers:

Home Inspection Contingency: It is highly advisable to include radon testing as part of your home inspection contingency. Tests should be conducted in the lowest livable area of the home, typically using a short-term test (lasting ≥ 48 hours) or a continuous monitor.

Post-Closing Testing: If possible, consider opting for a 90-day long-term test after closing to confirm radon levels under normal living conditions before making final radon mitigation decisions.

Remember, high pre-mitigation radon levels are fairly common in Wisconsin homes. Do not panic should the home you're under contract for test for high radon levels. Almost all cases of elevated radon in homes can be effectively mitigated 80-99% lower.

For Sellers:

Always disclose known radon issues to avoid potential legal complications and preserve buyer confidence.

Pre-Listing Testing: Conducting a pre-listing 90-day long-term radon test can provide valuable information that helps you price your home accurately or proactively address any radon issues before buyer inspections.

Documentation: Providing documented radon test results and professional radon mitigation certification (e.g., NRPP/NRSB) can significantly increase buyer confidence and reduce potential negotiation friction.

Negotiation Considerations

If radon testing reveals elevated levels (≥ 4 pCi/L) during a real estate transaction, it can become a key negotiation point:

Buyers Discover Elevated Levels (≥ 4 pCi/L): Buyers typically have the option to negotiate a price adjustment or require the seller to pay for radon mitigation before closing. Escrow arrangements (e.g., $1,500 held until mitigation is completed) are also common.

Competitive Markets: In hot real estate markets, sellers may be less inclined to mitigate and might instead offer a price reduction equivalent to the typical radon mitigation cost ($1,500-$2,500).

PureTech and its founders have a fair amount of experience in real estate transactions and know the importance of finding a reliable and fast contractor. For more information about our radon mitigation services and how we can help you in you visit our radon in real estate page.

PureTech Home Services: Your Local Radon Experts in Wisconsin

Healthy homes start with PureTech Home Services. We are proud to be your trusted local partner for comprehensive radon testing and mitigation in south central Wisconsin. Our NRPP certified radon specialists are committed to providing guaranteed, affordable, and effective solutions to protect your family's health from the dangers of radon gas and other hidden contaminants in your air and water.

Whether you need an initial radon test, are retesting your home, or need a radon mitigation system or repair, we are a reliable radon abatement option for you in Wisconsin. We offer fair pricing and quick turnaround times for all.

Contact PureTech Home Services today for a free consultation or to schedule your professional radon test. Protect your home and your loved ones today.