Being a landlord comes with a laundry list of responsibilities: ensuring the roof doesn’t leak, that drains flow freely and the boiler is working smoothly. Radon testing is yet another to add to that list, but luckily, it’s easy, simple and surprisingly affordable.
However, radon is not as visible as a leaky pipe.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes from the ground. It’s colourless, odourless and tasteless, meaning you need special testing to detect it. Prolonged exposure to high levels of radon can pose serious health risks, including lung cancer. While it may be one of the ‘less obvious’ hazards in a property, as a landlord, you have a duty of care to ensure your tenants are safe from all potential dangers, seen or unseen.
Under the Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS), radon is a legally recognised hazard that landlords are required to assess and address. So, let’s unpack what testing means for you and your tenants.
The Radon Map
Your first stop when assessing whether your property is at risk is by using the radon map. This is a handy tool that divides the UK into zones of varying radon probability.
- Darker areas on the map indicate zones of high risk, with a greater than 30% chance of properties having high radon levels.
- White areas represent a lower risk. However, please note that a property being within a ‘white zone’ does not mean your property is guaranteed to be radon-free. Testing is still the only way to know for sure.
If your property isn’t in a white zone, you’re in an “Affected Area” and should conduct a radon test.
How to Test for Radon
Testing for radon is straightforward and at PropertECO, we have a few options to suit your needs:
Passive Radon Detectors
- Where to buy: You can order a passive radon detector from our online radon shop.
- How it works: Place two detectors in the property (usually in a living room and a bedroom) for 3 months, then post the detectors to the lab for analysis.
- Cost: Our detectors start from £39.60.
- Short on time? A 10-day kit is available for faster results.
To make the process even easier, PropertECO also offers a ‘place and collect’ service for landlords managing large portfolios.
Digital Radon Detectors
- Where to buy: To order a digital radon detector, visit our radon shop.
- How it works: These digital devices are great for carrying out long-term measurements in a building or if you have several different areas that you want to test. These monitors do not need to be sent back to a laboratory for analysis.
- Benefits: Provides almost real time radon readings.
- Cost: Digital radon detectors start from £167.40.
Not sure where to begin? Feel free to get in touch with one of our radon experts. You can speak to our team for advice on 0800 046 6193 or click here.
What Happens Next?
Once the testing period is complete:
- For passive detectors: You will receive a detailed report and certificate, that you can keep on file to demonstrate compliance.
- For active monitors: Data can be reviewed and exported to generate a report from certain devices.
Mitigation Solutions
If the radon levels are above the recommended threshold (above 200 Bq/m3), you’ll need to take steps to mitigate the issue. Rest assured, radon mitigation is effective and often less disruptive than you might think.
This is where you can hand your test results over to our experts who will conduct a survey to design the most effective mitigation system for your property.
Two Main Mitigation Techniques:
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Radon Sump Systems
- A radon sump works by drawing radon gas from beneath your property and venting it safely outside.
- Ideal for properties with high radon concentrations, particularly those with solid floors or basements.
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Positive Pressure Systems
- These systems introduce fresh air into your property, diluting radon levels and preventing the gas from entering living spaces.
- Often suitable for properties with lower radon levels or specific construction features.
What to Expect During Installation
Radon mitigation installations are typically completed within one day. Our team will take care to minimise any impact, making sure that we only use systems that complement your property’s existing pipework, and that we handle everything, leaving your property safer and looking as good as new.
Tailored Solutions for Your Property
Every property is unique, and our highly trained team will assess your property to determine the most effective mitigation method. Whether it’s a sump system or a positive pressure solution, we’ll ensure the approach suits your needs and complies with all safety standards.
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