Professional radon testing costs homeowners an average of $840, with costs typically ranging from $310 to $1,420.
Depending on the nature of the situation, the cost might be as little as $280 or as much as $2,600. There are a variety of home test kits available for purchase from retailers like Amazon and hardware stores for a price range of $10 to $35, but working with a trained professional to conduct the test will yield the most reliable results.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has found that radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in non-smoker Americans. Since radon is a gas with no apparent physical properties, it can only be detected through rigorous analysis.
This guide includes:
- Average Costs
- Cost Estimator by Radon Test Type
- Other Factors That Affect Cost
- Radon Remediation
- Related Services
- Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
- Radon Testing Cost by Location
- FAQs
National Average Costs for Radon Testing in 2024
| National Average Cost | $840 |
| Typical Range | $310 – $1,420 |
| Extreme Low-End Cost | $280 |
| Extreme High-End Cost | $2,600 |
Professional radon testing for 48 hours, including examination and passive depressurization to reduce radon levels, costs homeowners an average of $840.
However, radon testing may cost as low as $280 for a passive charcoal test, which includes examination and lower-level pressurization. The highest potential cost is estimated to be $2,600, including active suction and basement sealing as mitigation strategies and ongoing active digital testing performed for ninety days.
Radon Testing Cost by Type
The presence and concentration of radon in a residence can be confirmed with a simple test. See radon testing costs per type below.
Short-Term Radon Testing
The typical price for professional short-term testing is $185 for homeowners. If you want to test for radon in your basement, garage, or office quickly, you may get a DIY radon testing kit, which might cost you around $25.
With some of the kits, you can get results in as little as two or three days. The price of the kit consists of both the kit itself and the results of the testing it performs. A list of the many short-term tests is as follows.
Charcoal Canister Radon Test
Battery-free, non-electric, short-term radon testing kits are usually known as charcoal canisters. In this test, the amount of radon can be estimated in a home by using charcoal to collect the gas from the air and then having it examined in a lab. The average price of a charcoal canister analysis is $85.
Liquid Scintillation Radon Test
Another option for short-term radon testing that doesn’t include electricity is the use of liquid scintillation devices. Like charcoal canisters, the contents of these capped vials are activated charcoal and work in the same manner. The typical price of a liquid scintillation device is $85.
Long-Term Radon Testing
The typical long-term radon testing cost over the course of a year is $190. Long-term tests are conducted over substantially longer periods to get a clearer picture. Long-term tests are far more beneficial than short-term tests. Find below an overview of the average costs associated with the various forms of long-term testing.
Electret Radon Monitor
A type of passive radon detector called an electret uses Teflon discs with an electrostatic charge to detect the presence of radon. Professionals usually use these for radon detection. The average price for radon detectors using electret technology is $165.
Alpha Track Radon Detector
A radon alpha track detector can be used for both short- and long-term monitoring. A little sheet of plastic is left in the home for weeks or months in this test. Traces left by radon particles on the plastic sheet can be used to identify the radon gas. The typical price for an alpha track detector is $200.
Continuous Radon Monitor
The typical average price of a continuous radon monitor is $215. Active radon testing devices, such as a continuous radon monitor, require electricity to work. Having them installed by home inspectors is recommended because of the complexity of the devices. Unlike other units, these detectors are sensitive enough to detect subtle changes in radon levels.
Other Factors That Affect Cost
The cost of radon testing might vary depending on the size of the home and the location. During a standard home inspection, radon testing is performed. You may find out if you have a radon problem and how bad it is during a regular home inspection.
Home Size
Some professionals buy multiple testing kits when working on larger properties, increasing the price. A home inspector’s decision to utilize numerous kits is influenced by the number of stories and the home’s layout. Depending on the size of your home and the inspector’s expertise, this could add another $310 to $1,420 to the total cost.
Some experts employ electronic measuring equipment that doesn’t increase their rates based on the size of the home, and their costs will be the same regardless of home size.
Regional Radon Levels
There is radon in almost every state in the US. Some regions have significantly lower levels than others. In comparison, other states have consistently higher levels, and yet others have levels that vary considerably from one region to the next within the same state.
If you reside in a state or county where the radon level is at least 2 pCi/L (picocuries per liter of air), you should go for routine testing. There may be restrictions in states with levels of 4 pCi/L or above mandating periodic testing and, in certain cases, the installation of mitigation systems at a cost of up to $2,600 in new homes.
Levels might vary by county and the individual house, even though they are generally low in your state. Getting tested regularly can cost as little as $280 if the statewide average is just 2 pCi/L.
Air Inspection Costs vs. Testing for Radon in Water
On average, testing for radon in water will cost you $85. If you have a well, it is important to have your water tested for radon because it might get into your home through the water supply. Water tests can be purchased for home use, or a technician can be hired. DIY tests are difficult, whereas professional tests are typically more detailed and reliable.
To compare, the typical cost to have a professional test the air quality of your home is $840, and most specialists will also test your well water if you have one.
Private ground wells must be tested regularly for radon; however, the EPA tests public water providers frequently.
Travel Fees
Some inspection companies may charge for travel expenses because many home inspectors need to make frequent rounds to your place for their work to be finalized. Depending on the specifics of the location, this price can range from around $100 upwards.
Radon Remediation
Depending on the concentration of the radon, mitigation or remediation services could be necessary. Radon mitigation or reduction services are required if radon levels are confirmed to be 4 pCi/l or above. The typical radon mitigation cost ranges from $865 to $1,725. However, the total cost can rise to $4,230 based on factors such as the square footage and the current state of the home.
See the cost of different radon mitigation options in the table below and learn more about these costs in our radon mitigation pricing guide.
| Radon Mitigation Method | Average Cost |
| Depressurization | $1,550 |
| Sealing the basement | $4,300 |
| Pressurization | $875 |
| Ventilation | $1,650 |
| Water treatment | $3,250 |
Related Services
A radon inspection may involve additional steps, some of which are mandated by law, while others are merely advised. Here are the costs of some other inspections you may need to consider.
Home Inspection
Most home inspectors provide a radon test as part of the price of a routine home inspection during a real estate transaction. On average, you can expect to pay $335 for such an inspection. Tests are always more cost-effective when performed as part of a larger inspection rather than as a separate service.
Termite Inspection
Homeowners who discover an infestation of termites must move swiftly to eradicate the pests. In most cases, a termite inspection will cost you between $60 and $250 from a professional home inspector.
Chimney Inspection
Brickwork, venting, cap deterioration, etc., can be checked on chimneys when you have your home inspected. An additional chimney inspection costs about $435 on average, added to the cost of a typical home inspection.
Pro Cost vs. DIY Cost
Available on Amazon and from local hardware stores, radon testing kits typically range in price from $10 to $35. Ensure a DIY tool is EPA authorized if you intend to use one. Use caution and accuracy while conducting DIY radon testing to ensure validity.
Do not forget that the $840 expense of employing a trained professional is worthwhile because it is tricky to perform a DIY test, and your results may not be accurate. Professionals are familiar with the necessary tools, conditions, and regulations.
Radon Testing Cost By Location
Where you live greatly impacts how much a professional radon inspection will cost. Due to heightened demand, places with thriving real estate markets frequently charge as high as $2,600 for inspection and testing costs. To receive the most affordable and superior service, speak with several local radon testing professionals.
FAQ
Radon gas is a major danger when present in high concentrations. Both the EPA and the CDC have determined that exposure to this gas in high concentrations significantly raises the chance of getting lung cancer.
Radon levels can be temporarily reduced by opening windows, but once they are closed again, the radon levels will rise to their original levels within a few hours.
It is possible to install radon-reduction devices and use radon-resistant materials when constructing new homes. Certain states with elevated radon levels mandate this for all new houses. The EPA suggests consulting with your contractor for more information on radon-resistant building materials and choices.
Residents and employees of a building are at risk for developing lung cancer if radon is present. Thus, an inspection is crucial while relocating or renovating your home.
Once every 24 months is the minimum interval between radon tests that the EPA recommends. If you don’t know your home’s current radon level, you should conduct a radon test immediately.
If the radon levels in your home are high, it may be difficult to sell it. The EPA suggests conducting a radon test on a home as soon as possible after purchasing or selling a property that may contain radon. Prior to listing the home for sale, radon levels should be dealt with.
Final Thoughts
Radon inspection is one of the crucial aspects of a home inspection, as the presence of radon in your home can lead to serious health consequences. Contact a radon inspection professional near you for a detailed examination of your home, which might cost around the national average of $840.
Note: LawnStarter may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
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