Radon Testing Rules for Landlords in DC: Your Renter Rights

Many renters in the District of Columbia want to know if their landlord must test for radon and what rights they have under the law. Staying safe at home is important, and DC has clear standards for landlords about radon testing and disclosure. This article explains your rights in Washington, DC, what notices and forms to expect, and how to take action if you have radon concerns in your rental.

What Is Radon and Why Does It Matter for Renters?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can build up in homes and apartments, especially in basements and lower floors. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon increases the risk of lung cancer. That’s why Washington, DC law has specific requirements for radon testing and notification by landlords.

Radon Testing Requirements for DC Landlords

Under the District of Columbia's Radon Disclosure and Tenant Protection Amendment Act of 2017, landlords must do the following in rental properties:

• Test for Radon: Before renting a unit, landlords must have the property tested for radon using an approved test.
• Disclose Radon Results: Landlords must give new and existing tenants the most recent radon test results and the EPA's radon health risk pamphlet.
• Re-test Every Two Years: Landlords are required to re-test the property at least every two years and disclose new test results promptly.
• Maintain Documentation: Landlords must keep radon test results and related disclosures as part of their property records.

If your landlord has not shared recent radon test results or an EPA radon guide, you have the right to request this information.

Required Forms and Official Notices for Renters

• Radon Test Result Disclosure Form (No Formal Number)
  • When Used: Must be provided to all new tenants before you sign your lease and to existing tenants when new tests are done.
  • How It's Used: Gives written documentation of the most recent radon test results for your unit.
  • View the DC Sample Radon Disclosure Form
• EPA Radon Guide: "A Citizen's Guide to Radon"
  • When Used: Landlords must give you this brochure together with test results.
  • How It's Used: Explains risks of radon and what you can do if high levels are detected.
  • Read the EPA Citizen's Guide to Radon

Your Rights and What to Do About High Radon Levels

DC law doesn't require landlords to fix high radon levels (over 4.0 picocuries per liter, or pCi/L), but they must disclose elevated results honestly. Here’s what you can do:

• Ask your landlord in writing to clarify mitigation plans if the radon test result is above 4.0 pCi/L.
• Contact the Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE) for guidance on landlord responsibility and next steps.
• Consult the Rental Accommodations Division if disclosure is missing or you suspect noncompliance.

You can escalate concerns to the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH), which is the main tribunal for residential tenancy disputes in Washington, DC.

Relevant DC Rental Laws and Resources

• Radon Disclosure and Tenant Protection Amendment Act of 2017
• DC Rental Housing Act of 1985 (main tenant rights law)
• DC Department of Energy & Environment: Radon Program— official updates, radon facts, and contacts for renters

Frequently Asked Questions About Radon Testing in DC Rentals

1. Do landlords in DC have to test for radon before renting my apartment?
   Yes, DC law requires landlords to have rental units tested for radon before leasing and to disclose results to all tenants.
2. Should my landlord give me a copy of the radon test results?
   Absolutely. Your landlord must provide you with written radon test results and the EPA radon guide if you are a new or existing tenant.
3. What happens if radon levels are high in my rental?
   DC law requires landlords to disclose all results, even if above the EPA action level. While mitigation (fixing) is not required by law, ask your landlord if they plan repairs and consider contacting DOEE for help.
4. How often is radon testing required in DC rentals?
   Testing is required before a new rental and at least every two years for all occupied units.
5. Who can I contact if my landlord refuses to provide radon information?
   You can reach out to the DC Department of Energy & Environment or the Office of Administrative Hearings for help. See the resources section below.

Key Takeaways for Renters in Washington, DC

• DC law requires landlords to conduct radon testing and provide written results plus an EPA brochure to tenants before and during your lease.
• If you have not received these documents, request them in writing and keep a record.
• The Office of Administrative Hearings and DOEE provide renter support and enforcement for these rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) – DC's residential tenancy tribunal for filing complaints or disputes
• DC Department of Energy & Environment Radon Program – Testing, guides, and reporting landlord noncompliance
• Rental Accommodations Division – DC rental forms and tenant resources
• EPA Radon Information – Health risks and mitigation steps

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1. District of Columbia: Radon Disclosure and Tenant Protection Amendment Act of 2017
2. District of Columbia Rental Housing Act of 1985
3. DC Department of Energy & Environment: Radon Program
4. DC Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH)
5. DC Department of Housing and Community Development: Rental Forms

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