Buying a home in Utah is an exciting milestone—but it comes with important safety checks, including testing for radon. While not always legally required, radon testing is a critical step that can protect your health and your investment for years to come.
If you’re in the market for a new home in Utah or representing a buyer or seller, here’s what you need to know about radon testing during real estate transactions.
What Is Radon and Why Does It Matter?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that seeps up from the soil. It’s colorless, odorless, and tasteless—and it’s the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. behind smoking.
Utah homes are particularly vulnerable due to the state’s geology. According to the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, one in three homes in Utah test above the EPA’s recommended radon action level of 4.0 pCi/L.
Is Radon Testing Legally Required in Utah?
Currently, Utah does not require radon testing as part of a real estate transaction. However, many real estate professionals, inspectors, and buyers treat it as a standard part of the inspection process—especially in high-risk areas like Salt Lake County, Utah County, and Summit County.
Even though it’s not mandated, skipping a radon test could leave homeowners with unexpected remediation costs or long-term health concerns.
Why You Should Always Request a Radon Test
Here’s why radon testing is a smart move before closing on a home in Utah:
- Health Protection: Early detection can prevent years of radon exposure.
- Negotiation Power: If levels are high, buyers can request the seller to install a mitigation system.
- Low Cost, High Value: Tests are affordable and often bundled with home inspections.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your future home is safe provides long-term confidence.
When to Perform the Test
Radon testing should take place during the due diligence period, often within the first 10–15 days after going under contract. This allows enough time to review results and negotiate repairs or mitigation before closing.
Tests can take 48 hours or longer, depending on the type of system used. Utah Mitigation offers fast, accurate digital radon testing to support home buyers and real estate agents.
What Happens If Radon Is Found?
If radon levels exceed 4.0 pCi/L, a radon mitigation system should be installed. The most common method is sub-slab depressurization, which actively pulls radon from below the home and vents it safely above the roofline.
Mitigation is straightforward and highly effective. In most cases, installation can be completed in a day and reduces radon levels by up to 99%.
Work With a Trusted Radon Partner in Utah
At Utah Mitigation, we work with buyers, sellers, real estate agents, and home inspectors across the state. Whether you’re purchasing a home in Provo, Park City, or St. George, we provide fast, certified radon testing and mitigation to keep your home safe.
Schedule your radon test today and make a smart, informed purchase.