Radon in Pittsburgh Homes: Why Testing Is Critical for Your Family’s Health

What Is Radon and Why Is It Dangerous?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas formed from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It’s colorless, odorless, and tasteless—making detection impossible without testing. When radon enters a home, it can accumulate to levels that pose serious health risks.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identifies radon exposure as the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for about 21,000 deaths annually. The leading cause? Smoking, which accounts for roughly 80–90% of lung cancer cases.

Radon Levels in Pennsylvania and Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania has some of the highest radon levels in the country, and Pittsburgh is no exception. About 40% of homes in Allegheny County have radon levels above the EPA’s action level of 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L)—significantly higher than the national average.

Why Every Homeowner Should Test for Radon

Radon levels can vary dramatically—even between neighboring homes. Testing is the only way to know if your home requires remediation. As a local real estate professional, I always recommend radon testing during the home inspection process. It’s a simple step that can protect your family’s health.

Radon Mitigation: Cost and Effectiveness

If elevated radon levels are detected, mitigation systems can reduce concentrations by up to 99%. These systems typically use a vent pipe and fan to safely redirect radon gas outside. The average cost? Just over $1,000—an affordable investment for long-term peace of mind and improved indoor air quality.

Renters Should Test Too

You don’t have to own a home to test for radon. Unfortunately, landlords are not legally required to test for radon in Pennsylvania, so renters should take the initiative to protect their families.

Take Action Today

Testing for radon is easy, inexpensive, and essential for a healthier living environment. For more information and resources, visit the https://www.dep.pa.gov/radon.

If you’d like a recommendation for a trusted radon specialist, call or text me at 412-973-8501.
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