Renters in Scotland may worry about radon — an invisible, naturally occurring gas that can increase lung cancer risk after long-term exposure. This guide explains what radon means for tenants, how testing works in Scottish rented properties, who is responsible for arranging tests or mitigation, and where to find official forms and help. It uses clear, tenant-friendly language and practical examples so you can ask your landlord or local authority the right questions and protect your household. If you rent a basement flat or an older stone property, testing and simple remedial measures may be especially important. This article also explains how to order a long‑term detector, record results, and when to escalate to the First‑tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber).
Why radon matters in rented homes
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas produced by the decay of uranium in soil and rock. It can enter buildings through gaps in floors or foundations and build up to levels that increase long-term health risk. Tenants often worry about exposure in lower-ground rooms, older masonry properties, or flats in radon-prone areas. If you are concerned, you or your landlord can arrange a long‑term radon test to measure average concentrations over months rather than days. Official UK guidance explains testing methods and action levels for homes in the UK.[1]
Who is responsible and what the law says
Under Scottish private tenancy law landlords must provide and maintain properties that meet basic standards of housing and safety defined by the Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 and related regulations.[2] While the Act does not mention radon by name, landlords are expected to address hazards that affect tenants' health and safety. If a tenant identifies a radon problem, start by asking the landlord in writing to arrange testing or mitigation.
Practical tenant example
If you live in a ground-floor flat and discover neighbour test results or a radon map showing your area is higher risk, email your landlord asking them to arrange a long‑term test or confirm they will pay for one. If the landlord refuses, you can raise the issue with the First‑tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) or your local authority as a housing standard concern.[3]
Testing: types, ordering and evidence
Long‑term detectors (typically three months or more) give the most reliable picture of average radon exposure. Short‑term tests are quicker but can vary with weather and ventilation and are not recommended as the sole basis for decisions about mitigation.
- Submit a written request to your landlord asking them to arrange a long‑term detector and to share the supplier's result certificate.
- Keep the detector in place for the recommended period (often three months) and do not move it within that time.
- Record where you place the detector and take dated photos so you can show the device was used correctly.
- Follow the supplier's return or submission instructions and request an official results certificate when the analysis is complete.
What to do if a test shows high radon
The commonly used action level across UK guidance is 200 becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m3) for homes; above that, mitigation is recommended. Landlord-funded mitigation might include improving underfloor ventilation or installing a sub-floor depressurisation system depending on the building construction and measured levels. Discuss options with your landlord and request written confirmation of their mitigation plan and timetable.
- If the landlord will not act, apply to the First‑tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) for a remedy and provide your test results and communications as evidence.
- Keep copies of all correspondence, photographs of detector placement, the official result certificate, and any receipts for costs you have paid.
FAQ
- Should my landlord test the property for radon?
- Yes, landlords should consider testing if the property is in a radon-prone area or if tenants request it; start by asking in writing and keep evidence of your request and any responses.
- Can I arrange my own radon test if the landlord refuses?
- Yes, you can arrange and pay for a test yourself and present the results to the landlord or the tribunal, but always keep receipts and the official analysis certificate as evidence.
- What radon level requires action?
- UK guidance generally uses 200 Bq/m3 as the action level for homes; above that, mitigation is recommended and should be discussed with your landlord.
- How long does a long‑term test take?
- Long‑term tests usually run for three months or more to give stable average results.
How-To
- Write to your landlord requesting they arrange a long‑term radon test and keep a dated copy of the message.
- If the landlord agrees, confirm the supplier and return procedure so you know how the sample will be analysed.
- Place the long‑term detector in the recommended room and leave it undisturbed for the full testing period.
- Document placement with photos and record the dates, then request the official result certificate from the supplier.
- If results exceed the action level, ask the landlord in writing for a mitigation plan and, if necessary, apply to the First‑tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) with your evidence.
Key Takeaways
- Test with a long‑term detector to get reliable average radon levels.
- Put all requests to your landlord in writing and keep copies of communications and receipts.
- Apply to the First‑tier Tribunal if a landlord refuses reasonable steps after documented requests.
Help and Support / Resources
- First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) — applications and forms
- Scottish Government — private renting and tenant guidance
- GOV.UK — radon: guidance and measurement
