Renters in New Brunswick should know that radon is a colourless, odourless gas linked to lung cancer and can be present in homes of any age. This guide explains what tenants can do if they suspect high radon, how testing works, and the landlord duties around repairs and mitigation under provincial tenancy rules. It also covers how to ask for testing or remediation, what official forms you may need, and where to find government resources and local tribunal help. The plain-language steps here aim to help tenants take practical action to protect their health, document concerns clearly, and follow the right channels if a dispute with a landlord arises.
How radon affects renters
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas. Long-term exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, especially for people who smoke. Testing is the only reliable way to know indoor levels. Health Canada recommends testing every home and using mitigation when long-term average levels exceed 200 Bq/m3.[1]
Whose responsibility is radon in rental housing?
Under New Brunswick tenancy rules, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining a reasonable state of repair and habitability. That includes addressing hazards that affect health and safety when they are known or reported. Tenants should notify landlords in writing about concerns and keep copies.
For general tenant health and safety guidance, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and to understand roles and duties refer to Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Practical steps tenants can take now
- Send a written request to your landlord asking for radon testing and keep a dated copy.
- Arrange an independent long-term radon test if the landlord does not arrange one, and keep the test report as evidence.
- If results are above the Health Canada guideline of 200 Bq/m3, ask the landlord to mitigate within a clear timeframe and get the agreement in writing.
- If the landlord refuses, you may apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal using the official application form (see forms below).
Testing and mitigation details
Long-term alpha track or electret detector tests (three months or more) give the best estimate of average radon exposure. Short-term tests are useful for an initial check but are not definitive. If mitigation is needed, common methods include sub-slab depressurization systems and improving ventilation. Costs and timing should be discussed, and a landlord may be required to pay for mitigation if the unit is unsafe.
Official forms and tribunal process
The main form tenants use if a landlord will not address a serious health or safety issue is the Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (often called an application form). Example: "Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Form RT-1)" — you would use it to ask the tribunal to order repairs or mitigation when a landlord refuses. Fill in what happened, attach your radon test report, copies of your written requests to the landlord, and any photos or receipts for independent tests or mitigation. The Tribunal for New Brunswick is the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.[2]
FAQ
- What level of radon is considered high?
- The generally accepted action level in Canada is 200 Bq/m3; landlords and tenants should plan mitigation when long-term averages exceed this guideline.
- Who pays for radon testing and mitigation in a rental?
- Responsibility can depend on local rules and lease terms, but landlords are typically responsible for major repairs affecting habitability; tenants should request action in writing and may use the tribunal if the landlord refuses.
- How long should a radon test run?
- Long-term tests run for at least three months to capture seasonal variation and give the most reliable estimate of average exposure.
How-To
- Write a dated request to your landlord asking for radon testing and keep a copy.
- Order or buy a long-term radon test kit and place it according to the manufacturers instructions for three months or more.
- If the test result is above 200 Bq/m3, formally request mitigation and propose a reasonable timeline (for example, within 90 days).
- If the landlord refuses or ignores the request, complete the Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and attach your evidence.
- Attend the tribunal hearing with all documents, photos, and the radon report and be prepared to explain the timeline and communications.
Key Takeaways
- Radon is a health risk and requires testing to confirm; long-term tests are best.
- Tell your landlord in writing and keep records; use the tribunal if necessary.
- Bring radon test results and all communications to any hearing or formal application.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Health Canada 01 Radon information and testing guidance
- [2] Residential Tenancies Tribunal (New Brunswick) information and forms
- [3] Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme
