Radon is an invisible, odourless gas that can build up in homes and poses a long-term lung cancer risk. If you rent in Alberta, understanding testing, mitigation, and your rights as a tenant helps you stay safe and assertive when reporting problems to a landlord or requesting repairs. This guide explains health impacts, how to test your unit, what mitigation options look like, and which provincial laws and tribunals can help resolve disputes. It also outlines practical steps for renters to document concerns, request action, and, if necessary, apply to Albertas dispute service for a remedy. Use this information to protect your health and to navigate conversations with your landlord about radon testing and remediation.
What is radon and why it matters
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can concentrate indoors, increasing long-term lung cancer risk, especially for people who smoke. Tenants in Alberta should know how radon behaves, how its measured, and why landlords and tenants may need to work together on testing and mitigation.[1]
Testing and mitigation for tenants
Long-term tests (90 days or more) give the most reliable results. You can buy an alpha-track kit or hire a certified tester; place the kit in the lowest lived-in level and follow instructions. Share results with your landlord and request mitigation if levels exceed Health Canadas guideline of 200 Bq/m3.[1]
For general rental safety issues see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for context on mould, ventilation and other hazards.
- Keep dated photos, test results and written notes of conversations as evidence.
- Request mitigation or repairs from your landlord in writing and keep copies.
- If the landlord does not act, consider applying to the provincial dispute service using official forms.
- Contact local tenant advice lines or legal clinics for help understanding your options.
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Legal rights and where to get help in Alberta
Albertas rules are set out in provincial legislation and dispute processes. The Residential Tenancies Act governs landlord and tenant responsibilities, including repairs and habitability.[3] If a landlord refuses to address dangerous conditions, tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) for orders and remedies.[2]
For a primer on rights specific to this province see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.
Official forms and how to use them
- RTDRS application form: use this to ask the RTDRS to order repairs or compensation when informal requests and negotiation fail; include copies of test results and written requests as evidence. RTDRS forms.
- Written request for repairs (no single provincial template): send a dated written request to the landlord describing the radon test result, the requested mitigation, and a reasonable deadline; keep a copy for your records as evidence in any later application.
FAQ
- Can my landlord be required to test or mitigate radon?
- Landlords may be required to address habitability issues; in Alberta you can request mitigation and, if not provided, apply to the RTDRS for an order.
- How long should a radon test run?
- Use a long-term test of at least 90 days for an accurate average; short tests can be misleading.
- Who pays for mitigation?
- Responsibility can depend on the lease and circumstances; tenants typically ask the landlord to pay for corrective work, and may seek remedies through the RTDRS if the landlord refuses.
How-To
- Buy a long-term radon test kit or hire a certified tester and place the kit in the lowest lived-in level for at least 90 days.
- Keep a clear record: photos, dates, test results, copies of written requests and any replies.
- Send a dated written request to the landlord asking for mitigation and a reasonable response deadline.
- If the landlord does not act, file an RTDRS application with supporting evidence and request specific remedies.
- Seek help from tenant advice services or legal clinics if you need assistance preparing your application.
Key Takeaways
- Test with a long-term kit and document results and communications.
- Ask your landlord in writing to mitigate if levels are high and keep copies.
- Use RTDRS if informal requests do not resolve the issue.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): RTDRS
- Read provincial rental rules and guidance on the Government of Alberta site: Residential Tenancies (Alberta)
- Check Health Canada guidance on radon levels and testing: Health Canada - Radon
