Protecting Tenants from Radon in HUD-Funded Housing

Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that can accumulate in buildings and pose serious health risks, including lung cancer. Given the potential dangers, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has established radon testing and mitigation requirements for federally assisted housing programs. These policies ensure that residents in HUD-funded properties are protected from excessive radon exposure.

Below, we’ll break down HUD’s radon policy, including testing, tenant notification, and mitigation requirements.

1. Radon Testing and Mitigation Requirements

HUD mandates radon testing and mitigation for certain federally assisted housing programs, particularly those involving FHA-insured multifamily housing. These programs include:

  • Newly constructed FHA-insured multifamily properties
  • Substantial rehabilitation projects funded by HUD
  • Federally assisted rental housing, such as those under the Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program

For these properties, HUD requires:

  • Radon testing before loan approval (for applicable properties)
  • Ongoing monitoring and mitigation if radon levels exceed 4.0 pCi/L
  • Testing conducted by a qualified professional

This policy aligns with EPA guidelines, which recommend mitigation when radon levels exceed 4.0 picocuries per liter (pCi/L).

2. Tenant Notification Requirements

If radon testing is conducted in a HUD-funded property and elevated radon levels are detected, HUD requires full disclosure to tenants. This means:

  • Current and prospective tenants must be informed about the test results.
  • Residents must receive details about planned mitigation efforts.
  • In some cases, property owners may need to provide educational materials on radon risks and mitigation measures.

HUD’s tenant notification policy ensures that residents are aware of potential radon hazards in their homes and understand what steps will be taken to address the issue.

3. Radon Mitigation Requirements

If radon levels exceed 4.0 pCi/L, HUD requires property owners to take corrective action using licensed radon mitigation professionals. The mitigation process typically involves:

  • Installing a sub-slab depressurization system to redirect radon gas away from the building
  • ay from the building
    Sealing foundation cracks and other entry points to prevent radon intrusion
  • Ensuring proper ventilation in basements and crawl spaces to reduce radon buildup
  • Performing post-mitigation testing to confirm that radon levels have been successfully reduced

Because radon mitigation must be performed by a licensed professional, property owners must work with qualified radon mitigation contractors to ensure compliance with HUD regulations.

Why HUD’s Radon Policy Matters

HUD’s radon policy is crucial for ensuring safe and healthy housing for low-income families, seniors, and individuals living in federally assisted housing. By requiring testing, disclosure, and mitigation, HUD helps:

  • Reduce tenants’ risk of lung cancer caused by radon exposure
  • Ensure compliance with federal and EPA guidelines
  • Improve indoor air quality in affordable housing communities

For tenants in HUD-funded properties, understanding their rights regarding radon testing and mitigation is key to ensuring a safe living environment.

Final Thoughts: What Tenants and Property Owners Should Know

If you live in a HUD-assisted or FHA-insured property, it’s important to:

  • Ask your property manager or landlord if radon testing has been conducted.
  • Request a copy of the test results if they are available.
  • Request a copy of the test results if they are available.
    Ensure that any required mitigation is performed by a licensed professional.
  • Stay informed about HUD’s policies to protect your health and safety.

For property owners, compliance with HUD’s radon policy is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s a commitment to providing safe and healthy housing for residents. By conducting proper radon testing and mitigation, landlords and housing authorities can ensure that tenants live in a radon-free environment while maintaining compliance with federal housing regulations.

Would you like to know more about HUD’s radon policies or find licensed mitigation professionals in your area? Feel free to reach out!