Radon Testing in Central Massachusetts

Radon is a radioactive gas that comes up naturally from the ground. You can’t see, smell or taste it, and it can build up inside homes, especially in basements and lower floors. The U.S. EPA calls radon the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Its guideline is to fix a home at or above 4 pCi/L, and to consider fixing between 2 and 4 pCi/L.

Types of radon tests

• Short-term tests (a few days): a quick first look. Placed on the lowest lived-in level with windows and doors kept closed.
• Long-term tests (90 days or more): a better picture of your average level, since radon rises and falls with weather and season.
• Continuous monitors: electronic devices that log levels hour by hour. Professionals often use these for real estate tests.

DIY kit or professional test?

A DIY kit costs about $15 to $60 including lab analysis; a professional test runs about $150 to $400, according to 2026 cost data. A professional test is usually the better choice for a home sale, or to confirm a high DIY result before paying for a system.

Reading your result

• 4 pCi/L or higher: the EPA recommends fixing the home.
• 2 to 4 pCi/L: the EPA recommends considering a fix.
• Under 2 pCi/L: retest every couple of years, and after major renovations.

Other services

• Radon testing
• Radon mitigation systems
• Radon when buying or selling a home