What Should a Radon Test Notice Say?

On this page (7 sections)

1. What should a radon test in progress notice say?
2. What conditions should occupants follow?
3. Where should you post the notice?
4. How can you make the notice clear for guests and workers?
5. What should you do if the test is disturbed?
6. Which test kits can help with an at-home screening?
7. What is the simplest way to write a radon test in progress notice?

A radon test in progress notice should state where the test is, when it starts and ends, what occupants should avoid, and who to contact with questions. Include the test instructions for doors, windows, fans, and the device itself.

A short, visible notice can help household members, guests, cleaners, and contractors avoid accidentally changing test conditions. The exact instructions depend on the test method, so use the directions from the test kit, lab, or qualified tester.

What should a radon test in progress notice say?

A useful notice names the room, test period, basic rules, and contact person. Keep it factual and easy to scan, with the most important instruction near the top.

You can adapt this template:

RADON TEST IN PROGRESS
Test location: [room or area]
Test started: [date and time]
Planned end: [date and time]
Please do not move, cover, unplug, or touch the test device.
Follow the posted instructions for windows, doors, and fans.

Questions or problems? Contact [name and phone number].
If the device is moved or the room conditions change, please contact [name] promptly.

Only include instructions that match the actual test. For example, don't add a fixed test duration unless the tester or device instructions confirm it.

What conditions should occupants follow?

Occupants should follow the specific instructions for that test, especially for the device and airflow.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency explains that short-term tests can require closed-house conditions and that disturbing the device or those conditions may affect results.

For a short-term test, EPA describes closed-house conditions as keeping windows closed, keeping doors closed except for normal entry and exit, and not operating fans or other machines that bring in outside air.

It also says to follow the instructions for the selected device and maintain the home's heating and cooling systems normally, subject to test-specific directions.

See the EPA radon testing checklist and the test provider's instructions.

Avoid writing rules that go beyond the test directions. Some fans or ventilation systems may have special instructions, so occupants should ask the tester before switching them off.

Where should you post the notice?

Place the notice where people will see it before entering or using the test area. A sign at the room entrance, plus a message to everyone with access, can reduce accidental handling.

If the test is in a basement, tell household members which room or level is being measured. Our guide to how to test a basement for radon explains why the test location matters.

Keep the device visible enough to avoid accidental contact, but don't move it simply to make the sign easier to display. Ask the tester where to put the notice if the device location is sensitive.

How can you make the notice clear for guests and workers?

Use direct actions and everyday words. “Keep the window closed” is clearer than “maintain closed-house conditions,” especially for guests who haven't read the test instructions.

Give workers and service providers the same information as household members. If someone needs to open a window, run an exhaust fan, or work near the device, ask them to contact the named person first.

Keep the notice current. Remove or update it once the test has ended, and let occupants know when they can return to normal routines under the test provider's instructions.

What should you do if the test is disturbed?

If someone moves the device, opens a window, or changes a condition in the instructions, record what happened and contact the tester or lab. Include when the change happened and how long it may have lasted.

Don't reposition the device or conceal a change without guidance. The tester can decide whether the result is still usable or whether a new test is needed.

Before testing begins, explain the duration and key rules to everyone in the home. For planning, see how often you should test for radon and how to test for radon at home.

Which test kits can help with an at-home screening?

A test kit can help you run a home screening when you follow its instructions and return the sample as directed. These options have different stated testing and result details, so check each kit's instructions before writing a notice.

The First Alert Radon Gas Test Kit includes test materials and lab fees, excluding New Jersey state fees. First Alert says results are emailed within 72 hours of lab receipt, and recommends the kit for use only in the United States.

The PRO-LAB Radon Test Kit for Home is a short-term kit with a 48-hour collection period and lab analysis included. PRO-LAB says it sends email or text updates from receipt through results.

The Leaping Lynx Radon Test Kit for Home uses a 48-hour test period and includes lab analysis, instructions, and a return mailer; postage is required. Its stated results timing is typically 3–5 business days after the lab receives the sample.

Use the kit's own directions for placement, timing, handling, and mailing. Don't assume that one notice or set of rules fits every test method.

What is the simplest way to write a radon test in progress notice?

A radon test in progress notice works best when it tells occupants what is being measured, how long the test runs, which conditions to maintain, and whom to contact. Keep the instructions short, visible, and consistent with the test provider's directions.

Choose the testing area and confirm the instructions before posting the notice. For location guidance, see where to place a radon test.

If someone changes a condition or touches the device, record it and ask the tester what to do next.

Frequently asked questions

What should a radon test notice include?

Include the testing location, start and planned end times, key instructions for the device and the home, and a contact for questions or problems. Use the tester's directions for the specific test, since placement, test length, and handling steps can differ.

Should windows stay closed during a radon test?

For many short-term tests, closed-house conditions matter. EPA describes these as keeping windows closed, doors closed except for normal entry and exit, and avoiding fans or machines that bring in outside air.

Follow the test instructions, which may set specific requirements.

What if someone moves a radon test device?

Contact the tester or lab promptly and explain what happened, when it happened, and whether the device changed position. Don't try to hide or correct the disturbance yourself; the tester can advise whether the test can continue or needs to be repeated.

Can occupants use the home during a radon test?

Usually, occupants can continue normal routines while following the specific test instructions. A notice should explain any special limits, such as keeping windows shut or avoiding certain fans, and should distinguish normal entry and exit from leaving doors open.