FAQ

  • What is radon, and why should I care?

    Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that naturally seeps from the ground. It’s the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. — and many homes in Maryland, especially Montgomery County, test above safe limits. The only way to know if your home is safe is to test.

  • How much does radon testing cost?

    Our standard test is $155. We also offer urgent testing, multi-unit testing, and retest discounts. See our Services & Pricing page for full details.

  • How long does the test take?

    We place a monitor in your home for 48 hours. After pickup, you’ll receive your results within 24 hours — sometimes sooner with our urgent service.

  • Is this required to sell my home?

    Yes — in Montgomery County, MD, sellers of single-family homes (including detached homes and townhomes) are legally required to conduct a radon test within one year of settlement. This law has been in effect since October 1, 2016 under Chapter 40, Section 40-13C of the Montgomery County Code.

  • What if my radon levels are high?

    If your results show high radon levels, mitigation is recommended — but we don’t perform mitigation, so you’ll get unbiased results. We can provide next steps or refer you to a licensed radon mitigator.

  • How do I book a test?

    Visit our Booking Page, fill out the quick form, and we’ll be in touch to confirm the next available appointment, send over your testing agreement, and share your secure payment link.

Radon Basics

  • Radon is a radioactive gas that forms naturally in the soil and enters homes through cracks and openings. It’s the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S.

  • No — radon is completely invisible and odorless. The only way to detect it is with a professional test.

  • Yes. Montgomery County and much of Maryland fall within the EPA’s high-risk zones for elevated radon levels. Many homes exceed the safe limit (4.0 pCi/L) without knowing it.

  • No. Even brand-new homes can have high radon levels depending on soil composition and how the home was constructed.

  • The EPA recommends testing every 2–5 years, or after major renovations, HVAC changes, or if you’ve installed a mitigation system.

For Buyers/Sellers & Renters

  • Yes — if you’re selling a single-family home in Montgomery County, a radon test must be completed within 1 year of settlement. This law has been in place since 2016. Some areas like Rockville and Kensington are exempt. Learn more.

  • Absolutely. Testing during the home inspection process ensures you’re not unknowingly buying a property with dangerous radon levels. It’s also a strong negotiation tool.

  • Yes. As of July 1, 2023, Montgomery County landlords are required to test and disclose radon levels. But even outside that, renters have the right to know — and you can test the unit yourself for peace of mind.

  • If radon is 4.0 pCi/L or higher, mitigation is recommended. We don’t provide mitigation, so there’s no conflict of interest — just honest results. We can refer you to licensed professionals.

  • Yes — especially after HVAC upgrades, basement finishing, or mitigation system installation. Retesting ensures your space is still safe.

Services & Pricing

  • • Standard Test – $155

    • Urgent Test – $185–$200

    • Multi-Device/Unit Test – from $250

    • Retest (returning clients) – $125

    Visit our Services & Pricing page for full details.

  • We serve most of the DC metro area. If you’re more than 15 miles outside our main service zone, a travel fee of $25–$40 may apply.

  • Yes — these are situational:

    • Travel outside 15 miles: $25–$40

    • Weekend/after-hours test: $35

    • Retest (due to interference): $125

    • Rush report (same-day): $20

    • Report reissue after 45 days: $15

  • Yes! Use code 20906 for 20% off if you’re in our local community. Other seasonal or referral discounts may be available — ask at time of booking.

Booking & Logistics

  • Just visit our Booking Page, fill out the short form, and we’ll confirm your appointment, send over the test agreement, and provide your secure payment link.

  • We accept all major credit/debit cards through our secure online system. Full payment is required before testing begins.

  • Yes — urgent deployment is available for an additional fee. We also offer limited weekend and after-hours testing based on availability.

  • Yes, with advance notice. Please contact us as soon as possible if your plans change. Late cancellations may incur a fee.

Testing Process

  • Each radon test runs for 48 hours. We’ll place the device, return to pick it up after two days, and deliver your report within 24 hours.

  • We use continuous radon monitors (CRM) that are EPA-approved and professionally calibrated.

  • In the lowest livable level of the home — typically the basement or ground floor — away from windows, vents, or external doors.

  • This can interfere with the test results. If the protocol is broken, a retest may be necessary at a reduced cost.

  • You’ll receive a 12-hour protocol to follow before and during the test. It includes keeping windows closed, avoiding HVAC extremes, and not moving the device.

After the Test

  • Within 24 hours of pickup. Urgent test reports may be delivered the same day.

  • • Your radon levels (in pCi/L)

    • EPA action threshold information

    • Interpretation of the results

    • Recommended next steps (if needed)

  • Yes — reports are free for 60 days. After that, a reissue costs $15.

  • We offer discounted retests for returning clients at $125. This is ideal after mitigation or any interference.