Connecticut Landlord Responsibilities: Radon Testing Rules

Radon is an invisible radioactive gas that can seep into homes and apartments. Long-term exposure may increase the risk of lung cancer, making radon testing an important health and safety concern. Knowing your rights regarding radon testing requirements for landlords in Connecticut helps you ensure a safe living environment.

What Is Radon and Why Should Connecticut Renters Care?

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can enter homes through cracks in foundations, basements, or crawl spaces. According to the Connecticut Department of Public Health, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers in the United States. Testing for radon in rental units helps protect tenants' health, especially in a state like Connecticut where many regions have elevated radon levels. Learn more about radon from the CT DPH Radon Program.

Are Landlords Required to Test for Radon in Connecticut?

As of 2024, there is no Connecticut state law mandating landlords to test for radon or provide radon test results to tenants before or during a tenancy. However, if a landlord chooses to test and discovers high radon levels (4 picocuries per liter or more), they are strongly encouraged by the Connecticut Department of Public Health to share those results and take appropriate action to reduce radon exposure.

• Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 830: Landlord and Tenant Law sets the habitability standards landlords must uphold, including a duty to keep properties safe and fit for occupation.

If radon issues create a health hazard in the rental, a tenant may be able to request remediation under the landlord's duty to maintain a safe living environment.

If You Suspect High Radon Levels

If you believe your home might have high radon levels, consider asking your landlord if testing has been done. You may also conduct your own test using a kit from the Connecticut Department of Public Health or a certified professional. If high levels are confirmed, notify your landlord in writing and request remediation.

What Can Connecticut Renters Do About Radon?

• Review your lease: Some leases include specific radon disclosures or requirements. Connecticut does not require a specific radon disclosure form, but leases may address this.
• Testing: Purchase a radon test kit or hire a qualified radon professional, especially if you live in a basement or first-floor unit.
• Notifying your landlord: If your test shows high radon levels, notify your landlord in writing. Outline the results and request repairs.

Official Forms and Resources

• Connecticut Department of Public Health – Radon Program Request Form: Used to request radon information or materials from the state program. For renters, this is useful to learn about at-home radon testing and free kit availability. Access the Radon Request and Info Form.
• CT Judicial Branch – Housing Complaint Forms: If a landlord refuses to address a serious radon problem, renters may seek remedies via the Housing Session of the Connecticut Superior Court. Use the Housing Complaint (Form JD-HM-20) to bring housing code violations—including unsafe radon—to court.

While there is no "Radon Disclosure" form required by Connecticut law, state and federal laws require landlords to disclose any known hazardous building conditions.

Your Legal Protections and Next Steps

The Connecticut housing tribunal is the Housing Session of the Superior Court. This court hears landlord-tenant disputes, including habitability issues linked to radon. Under Chapter 830, The Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords must maintain rental properties so they are safe and fit for occupation. If a landlord ignores a serious radon threat, tenants may have the right to:

• Request remediation in writing
• Contact local health officials for inspection
• File a complaint with the Housing Session of Superior Court if health and safety codes are violated

FAQs: Connecticut Renters and Radon Testing

1. Are Connecticut landlords legally required to test for radon?
   No, Connecticut does not require landlords to test rental units for radon or disclose radon levels, unless specifically addressed in the lease agreement.
2. What should I do if high radon is found in my rental unit?
   Notify your landlord in writing and ask for remediation. If the issue is not addressed and you believe your health is at risk, you may file a complaint with the Housing Session of the Connecticut Superior Court.
3. Is there a Connecticut form landlords must use to disclose radon?
   No, there is no required radon disclosure form in Connecticut. However, leases may include information or require landlord notification if high radon is known.
4. Where can I get help with a radon-related dispute?
   Contact the Connecticut Housing Session of Superior Court for dispute resolution, or your local health department for testing advice.

Key Takeaways for Connecticut Renters

• Landlords are not required by law to test for or disclose radon but must keep rentals habitable.
• Tenants can test for radon and request remediation of unsafe levels.
• Official complaint avenues and forms exist if landlords fail to address serious radon hazards.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Department of Public Health – Radon Program: Information, test kits, and remediation guidance.
• Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Session: For filing complaints and resolving habitability disputes.
• Contact your local health department for further support and testing info.

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1. Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 830: Landlord and Tenant
2. Connecticut Department of Public Health Radon Program
3. Connecticut Judicial Branch Housing Session

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