Pennsylvania Radon Testing Rules for Landlords and Renters

Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas, and exposure in rental housing can pose serious health risks—including increased lung cancer risk. If you are a renter in Pennsylvania, understanding your rights concerning radon testing and landlord responsibilities is key for maintaining a safe home environment. This article explains radon testing requirements for landlords, what to do if you suspect unsafe radon levels, and the protections you have under Pennsylvania law.

What Is Radon and Why Does It Matter?

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can enter homes through the ground. Long-term exposure can endanger your health. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) recommends action if radon levels are at or above 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L).

Are Landlords Legally Required to Test for Radon in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania does not currently mandate radon testing for landlords in residential rental properties statewide. There is, however, a specific disclosure law requiring landlords to inform tenants of known radon hazards:

• If a rental property has been tested for radon and the results show levels above the EPA action level, landlords must disclose these results to new tenants before a lease is signed.

Some local city or county ordinances may set stricter rules, especially for rental properties in high-risk radon areas. Always check with your local code enforcement office for additional requirements.

Disclosure Form: Pennsylvania Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement

While Pennsylvania does not provide a standard state radon disclosure form for rentals, landlords typically use the Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement (SPD) (Form: No official number) to inform renters about prior radon testing with high results. For example, if you review a lease and see an SPD attached, check the radon explanation section to see if the unit had high radon readings. Ask your landlord for any written test results or reports if you have concerns.

Your Right to a Safe and Habitable Home

Under the Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords must keep rental properties safe and habitable. If you learn of elevated radon levels, you may have rights to request repairs, break your lease, or report the issue.

What Should Renters Do If They Suspect Elevated Radon Levels?

If you are concerned about radon in your home:

• Ask your landlord if the property has been tested for radon and request a copy of any test results.
• Order your own radon test kit from the PA DEP Radon Test Kit Program. Results are confidential and affordable (sometimes at low or no cost for qualifying residents).
• If results are over 4 pCi/L, notify your landlord in writing of the results and request mitigation or repair as soon as possible.
• If your landlord does not address the issue, you may file a complaint with your local code enforcement office or seek mediation and support from the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.

Pennsylvania Tenant Complaint Form

If you want to report unsafe living conditions because of radon or another serious habitability issue, you can use the Pennsylvania Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form (Form: No official number). For example, after requesting radon remediation in writing and receiving no response, you can submit this form online to the Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Housing Disputes?

In Pennsylvania, local Magisterial District Courts have the authority to hear landlord-tenant cases, including habitability and health disputes. You can learn more or file actions through your local Magisterial District Court.

Summary: Landlord Radon Testing and Renters’ Rights

In summary, while testing is not mandatory for all landlords in Pennsylvania, you do have rights if radon hazards are known or discovered. Be proactive: ask for disclosure, conduct your own testing if needed, and use official channels to resolve any safety issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Pennsylvania landlords required by state law to test every rental unit for radon?
   No, landlords are not required statewide to test for radon in residential rental properties. However, any known elevated radon must be disclosed to new tenants before signing a lease.
2. What should I do if I tested for radon myself and found high levels in my apartment?
   Notify your landlord in writing right away and request repairs. Keep copies of test results and communications. If your landlord does not respond, you can file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office or your code enforcement office.
3. Which government body helps renters with landlord-tenant disputes in Pennsylvania?
   Landlord-tenant cases are handled by Magisterial District Courts. The Attorney General’s Office can also assist with complaints.
4. How can I get a radon test kit in Pennsylvania?
   You can order a low-cost or free radon test kit directly from the PA Department of Environmental Protection.
5. What official form can I use to make a complaint about rental home health hazards?
   Submit the Pennsylvania Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form provided by the Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Pennsylvania does not require statewide mandatory radon testing for landlords, but landlords must disclose known high radon results.
• If you suspect high radon, use a test kit, inform your landlord, and use official forms and channels if concerns aren’t addressed.
• Renters are protected by the habitability standard in the Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act.

Awareness and early action can help ensure your rental home is a safe place to live.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Pennsylvania Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Complaints
• Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection: Radon Division
• PA Magisterial District Courts: Landlord-Tenant Actions
• Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act

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1. Pennsylvania Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Pennsylvania Attorney General: Landlord-Tenant Complaints
3. Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection: Radon Information
4. PA Magisterial District Courts
5. Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement

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