Invisible, odorless, and common in Minnesota, radon can feel intimidating when you are buying or selling a home. If you are preparing for a move in Roseville, you want clear steps and a level head so radon does not derail your plans. In this guide, you will learn how radon testing works, what results mean, which mitigation and ventilation options fit Minnesota homes, and how to handle radon confidently in a real estate transaction. Let’s dive in.
Why radon matters in Roseville
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can build up indoors. Long-term exposure is linked to lung cancer. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency explains radon is a leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and sets an action level at 4 pCi/L for recommending mitigation. You can learn more in the EPA’s guidance, including A Citizen’s Guide to Radon.
Minnesota has some of the highest indoor radon potential in the country. According to the Minnesota Department of Health, county testing shows elevated concentrations across much of the state, including Ramsey County. The practical takeaway for Roseville homeowners and buyers is simple: test every home, treat findings as manageable, and plan next steps based on clear data.
- Read the EPA overview: A Citizen’s Guide to Radon
- Explore Minnesota guidance: Minnesota Department of Health Radon Program
Minnesota disclosures and real estate basics
In Minnesota, sellers must disclose known material facts about a property. In practice, radon test results and the presence of a mitigation system are treated as material and appear on standard disclosures or addenda used by Realtors. For specific legal obligations, consult the Minnesota Department of Health resources or an attorney.
Common approaches in Roseville transactions:
- Sellers often test before listing and either mitigate or disclose results with context.
- Buyers commonly include a radon testing contingency and request mitigation, a credit, or an escrow holdback if levels are high.
- Purchase agreements typically require post-mitigation verification and documentation if a system is installed before closing.
How to test in a Roseville transaction
Short-term vs long-term testing
- Short-term tests (2 to 7+ days) include charcoal canisters, electret ion chambers, or continuous radon monitors. These are standard in real estate because you get results quickly.
- Long-term tests (90+ days) use alpha-track detectors or long-term electronic monitors. They capture seasonal variation and are better for estimating annual exposure.
Professional vs DIY
- DIY kits are affordable and widely available, but you must follow instructions precisely and mail the kit to an approved lab.
- Qualified measurement professionals offer certified devices, correct placement, and a documented chain of custody. That reduces disputes during negotiations. You can find guidance and lists of professionals through the MDH Radon Program.
Proper testing conditions
For short-term tests during a sale, follow these basics:
- Maintain closed-house conditions for at least 12 hours before and during the test, except for normal entry and exit.
- Place the device on the lowest livable level, at breathing height, away from drafts, supply vents, kitchens, and bathrooms.
- Note that radon varies by season. If a short-term result is near the action level, consider a follow-up long-term test or a repeat professional test.
What your results mean
- Under 4 pCi/L: EPA does not require mitigation at this level. Consider periodic retesting, especially after renovations or HVAC changes. Some homeowners choose to mitigate if sustained levels are over 2 pCi/L based on risk tolerance.
- At or above 4 pCi/L: Mitigation is recommended. Obtain proposals from qualified mitigators and plan for post-mitigation verification.
- Borderline results: Repeat testing or run a long-term test to confirm typical exposure, then decide on mitigation.
For health context and prevention tips, see the CDC radon information.
Mitigation and ventilation solutions that work
Active Soil Depressurization
The most reliable method for Minnesota homes is Active Soil Depressurization (ASD). A PVC pipe draws soil gas from beneath the slab and vents it above the roof with a continuously operating fan. In many homes, this approach reduces radon by 50 to 99 percent. A qualified mitigator will size the fan, choose the pipe route, seal key cracks and sump lids, and confirm performance with a follow-up test.
Sealing, sump, and crawlspace strategies
Sealing foundation cracks, utility penetrations, and installing a sealed sump cover improves system efficiency. Homes with crawlspaces may need a membrane and sub-membrane depressurization. Sealing alone is rarely enough if levels are high, but it is an important companion to ASD.
Ventilation that supports healthy air
In our cold climate, a whole-house heat-recovery ventilator (HRV) can improve indoor air quality by bringing in fresh air and recovering heat. This can modestly reduce indoor pollutant levels and support comfort and moisture control. However, HRV or ERV systems are typically a supplement, not a standalone fix for radon at or above the EPA action level. Ventilation should be coordinated with a radon professional so you do not unintentionally change pressure in a way that increases radon entry. For standards context, see industry guidance from AARST on testing and mitigation standards.
Working the plan in your contract
If you are selling
- Test before listing and disclose results. If levels are high, gather two or more mitigation estimates and decide whether to mitigate before market or offer a credit.
- If you mitigate, provide the installer invoice, warranty, and a post-mitigation test result to reassure buyers.
If you are buying
- Include a radon testing contingency. Specify the device type, threshold, and timeline in your offer.
- If the result exceeds the threshold, request mitigation, a credit, or an escrow holdback. Build in a post-mitigation verification requirement before or soon after closing.
Documentation to request
- Full radon test report with device type, dates, and chain of custody if done by a professional.
- If a system exists: installation invoice, system diagram, qualifications of the installer, any warranty, and post-mitigation test results.
Choosing qualified pros in Roseville
Use Minnesota Department of Health resources to identify qualified measurement and mitigation professionals. Ask about experience with local soil and foundation types, expected reduction ranges, fan specifications, and warranty terms. Insist on a written scope and a verification test after installation. For additional technical context, review AARST standards for testing and mitigation alongside MDH guidance from the MDH Radon Program.
Straightforward next steps
- Order a short-term professional test if you are preparing to list or are in an inspection window.
- If results are at or above 4 pCi/L, obtain multiple mitigation bids and plan for post-install testing.
- If results are close to the action level, consider confirmatory testing or a long-term test.
- Keep your paperwork organized so disclosures and negotiations stay smooth.
If you want calm, experienced guidance from prep to closing, let’s talk about your goals and the right plan for your home. [Unknown Company] can help you coordinate testing, interpret results, and structure clean, buyer-friendly solutions. Request a Personal Home Valuation or Schedule a Consultation today.
FAQs
What is radon and why is it common in Roseville?
- Radon is a natural radioactive gas from soil that can accumulate indoors; Minnesota’s geology leads to higher indoor potential, so testing every home is recommended by state health authorities.
What is the EPA action level and what does it mean?
- The EPA recommends mitigation at 4 pCi/L or higher and suggests considering further evaluation for results between 2 and 4 pCi/L.
How does radon testing typically work during a Minnesota home sale?
- Buyers often use a short-term test during the inspection period; if levels are high, contracts allow for mitigation, credits, or other remedies with post-mitigation verification.
Will an HRV or ERV solve high radon on its own?
- Whole-house ventilation can improve air quality and may modestly lower radon, but it is not a reliable replacement for Active Soil Depressurization when levels are at or above the EPA action level.
How long does a mitigation install usually take?
- Many single-family installs take about one to two days, with timing depending on foundation type and complexity.
Does a mitigation system hurt resale value?
- A properly installed system usually reassures buyers by addressing a health concern and can remove a negotiation barrier.
How often should a Minnesota home be retested for radon?
- Retest every few years, after major renovations or HVAC changes, and promptly after installing mitigation to confirm performance.
