Rhode Island Landlord Radon Testing Rules: Renter Guide

If you're renting in Rhode Island, understanding radon testing requirements is important for your health and safety. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can build up indoors, raising your risk of lung cancer over time. Rhode Island has established rules for landlords regarding radon disclosure and testing, aimed to protect renters like you.

What Is Radon and Why Should Renters Care?

Radon comes from soil and rock beneath buildings and can enter homes through foundation cracks. It is invisible and odorless, making professional testing the only way to know if you're at risk. The Rhode Island Department of Health recognizes radon as a significant health concern, especially in residential properties.

Landlord Responsibilities for Radon Testing in Rhode Island

Rhode Island law requires specific actions from landlords when it comes to radon:

• Disclosure: Landlords must inform tenants of any known radon hazards or prior radon test results before a lease is signed.
• Testing: While there is currently no state law requiring landlords to proactively test for radon in all rental units, they must disclose existing test results if available.
• Mitigation: If a rental unit tests above the EPA action level (4.0 picocuries per liter or pCi/L), landlords are responsible for providing notice and working toward mitigation.

If you are concerned about radon and there is no documentation, you may request testing by contacting your landlord. Landlords are not strictly required to test unless negotiated in your lease, but they cannot prevent you from testing at your own expense.

Radon Test Disclosure Form for Renters

The official Rhode Island form for radon disclosure is the Radon Risk Communication Form. Landlords should provide this at lease signing if testing has occurred or results are known. If you have not received this form and have concerns, you can request it from your landlord.

• Form Name: Radon Risk Communication Form (download from the Rhode Island Department of Health)
• How it's used: Provided to tenants before lease signing if radon testing has been performed. For example, if test results show elevated radon, the form explains risks and outlines next steps for mitigation.

What Renters Can Do If Concerned About Radon

If you're worried about possible radon risks in your Rhode Island rental, consider these steps:

• Ask your landlord for the latest radon test results and the Radon Risk Communication Form.
• If no test has been conducted, consider arranging your own test. Professional radon testers can be found through the state's list of certified professionals.
• If results show unsafe radon levels, notify your landlord in writing and request mitigation.
• Keep copies of all correspondence for your records.

Relevant Rhode Island Renting Laws and Tribunals

Rhode Island's rental laws are outlined in the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Disputes about health and safety, including radon, may be resolved through the Rhode Island District Court—Landlord & Tenant Division.

Common Questions about Radon in Rhode Island Rentals

1. Are landlords required to test for radon in Rhode Island?
   Landlords are not required to automatically test every unit, but they must disclose any known radon hazards or prior test results.
2. What should I do if high radon is found in my rental?
   Notify your landlord in writing. They are responsible for disclosure and, if possible, mitigation. If not addressed, you can contact the Department of Health or seek mediation through the District Court.
3. Can I perform my own radon test?
   Yes, tenants are allowed to hire a certified professional to perform a radon test at their own expense if the landlord has not provided recent results.
4. Where can I get help if my landlord won’t address radon issues?
   You can file a complaint with the Rhode Island Department of Health or seek legal support through the District Court’s landlord-tenant process.
5. Is there an official form for radon disclosures to tenants?
   Yes, the Radon Risk Communication Form is Rhode Island’s official disclosure document.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• Rhode Island landlords must disclose known radon risks and prior testing results but are not required to conduct routine testing in rentals.
• Tenants have the right to request disclosure and conduct their own tests if concerned.
• Official complaint and support options are available if unsafe radon levels are not addressed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island Department of Health – Radon Info & Complaints: Information and complaint form for radon concerns
• Rhode Island District Court Landlord & Tenant Division: Handles disputes between renters and landlords
• Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Full text of state rental law
• Radon Risk Communication Form (official PDF)
• Find a State-Certified Radon Professional

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1. Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Chapter 34-18
2. Rhode Island Department of Health – Radon Program: Radon Information
3. Rhode Island District Court – Landlord & Tenant: Dispute Resolution
4. Rhode Island Radon Risk Communication Form: Official PDF
5. List of State-Certified Radon Professionals: Find a Professional

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