Buying a Home in Utah? Here’s What You Need to Know About Radon
When you’re purchasing a home in Utah, there are a lot of boxes to check—home inspection, financing, appraisal, and more. But one thing that often gets overlooked is radon testing.
So, is radon testing legally required when buying a house in Utah?
The short answer is: no, it’s not legally required—but it’s strongly recommended, and often requested during real estate transactions.
What Is Radon—and Why Does It Matter in Utah?
Radon is a radioactive gas that naturally occurs in the ground and can seep into homes through cracks, pipes, and basements. It’s odorless, invisible, and dangerous—and long-term exposure is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S.
Utah is considered a radon hotspot, especially in counties along the Wasatch Front like:
- Salt Lake County
- Utah County
- Davis County
- Weber County
- Summit and Wasatch Counties
In fact, over 1 in 3 homes in Utah test above the EPA’s action level of 4.0 pCi/L.
Is Radon Testing Required by Law in Utah Real Estate Transactions?
Currently, Utah does not require radon testing by law when selling or buying a home. However:
- Sellers are not required to test but must disclose known radon levels if previously tested.
- Buyers can request radon testing as part of the home inspection process.
- Many real estate agents and inspectors in Utah recommend testing due to the region’s high radon levels.
Why Buyers Should Request a Radon Test
Even though it’s not required, radon testing is a low-cost, high-impact safeguard that could save your health—and your wallet—later on.
Here’s why it matters:
- Radon exposure is cumulative—catch it early.
- Mitigation systems cost $1,200–$2,000.
- If you test after closing and find high levels, you’re on the hook for the cost.
- You can negotiate mitigation costs during the buying process.
When and How to Test for Radon During a Home Purchase
Most buyers add radon testing as an add-on to their home inspection, typically costing between $100–$200. The test takes 2-4 days and should be placed in the home’s lowest livable area—usually the basement.
Best practices:
- Ask your home inspector to include radon testing in your inspection contingency.
- If levels are above 4.0 pCi/L, request that the seller mitigate or credit you for the cost.
What If the Seller Already Installed a Mitigation System?
Great! But you should still:
- Request proof of a recent radon test
- Check that the system is operational
- Ensure a U-tube manometer is installed and showing pressure
What’s the Buyer’s Next Step?
If you’re buying a home and the radon test comes back high, don’t panic. Radon mitigation systems are simple, effective, and can be installed in less than a day.
At Radon Quote, we help new homeowners:
- Understand their radon test results
- Get matched with the right mitigation solution
- Order a kit or schedule professional installation
Conclusion: It’s Not Legally Required—But It’s a Smart Move
Radon testing might not be mandatory when buying a home in Utah, but skipping it could cost you more than you think. Protect your investment—and your health—by making radon testing part of your home buying checklist.
Buying a home? Already tested for radon?
Submit your results and we’ll help you find the best radon mitigation solution for your new place.
Leave a Reply