Radon is an invisible, odourless gas that can build up in homes and raise the long-term risk of lung cancer. As a renter in Prince Edward Island, you have the right to a safe home and to ask your landlord about radon testing and mitigation. This guide explains what radon is, why it matters in PEI, who is typically responsible for arranging and paying for tests and fixes, and the official forms or steps you may need to protect your health. It also shows how to document requests, escalate concerns to the provincial intake or tribunal, and access local help. Use this to take practical, tenant-focused steps to reduce radon exposure in your rental.
What is radon and why it matters in PEI
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas released from soil and rock that can enter buildings through cracks, sump pits, and gaps around pipes. Over months and years, indoor radon concentrations can increase and raise lung cancer risk. In many parts of Canada, including pockets of Prince Edward Island, radon testing is the only reliable way to know if levels are high. Health Canada recommends action when long-term average radon concentrations exceed 200 Bq/m3.[3]
Tenant rights and landlord responsibilities in Prince Edward Island
Under provincial rules and common habitability principles, landlords are responsible for keeping rental premises safe and in a good state of repair. Tenants can ask landlords to arrange radon testing and, if levels are high, mitigation work. For specific PEI legislation and the process for disputes, refer to the provincial legislation and the body that handles tenancy matters; the province names the Residential Tenancies Board as the intake and dispute resource for rental issues.[1][2]
For an overview of renter health and safety concerns that include indoor air issues like radon, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
How to request radon testing (practical steps)
- Contact your landlord in writing asking for radon testing; include the address, unit number, and a clear request for a long-term test.
- Set a reasonable timeline in your request (for example, ask that testing start within 30 days) and offer to share test results.
- Keep copies of your message, any replies, and test reports as evidence if you need to escalate the issue.
- If a landlord refuses, find the correct provincial form or application to raise the issue with the tenancy board or intake office.
- If tests show levels above Health Canada guidance, request mitigation work and a post-repair test to confirm effectiveness.
Testing process and official forms
Long-term radon tests (at least 3 months, ideally during heating season) give the most reliable average. Testing is done with alpha track detectors or electronic monitors. If you and your landlord agree, a professional can install and retrieve detectors; otherwise, short-term or consumer kits are available but may be less conclusive.
Possible official forms and steps in PEI include a written tenant request and, if necessary, an application to the provincial tenancy intake or board to ask for an order to require testing or repairs. Commonly referenced items include:
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Board (used when informal requests do not resolve the issue).
- Written request or notice to your landlord documenting the health concern, test results, and a clear request for remediation.
Always check the official provincial pages for current form names, numbers, and submission instructions; the exact form titles and numbers are provided on the government site and by the Residential Tenancies Board.[1][2]
Remediation and repairs
When radon is high, mitigation commonly involves sealing entry points and installing a sub-slab depressurization or ventilation system. Landlords and tenants should discuss timelines, who will hire the contractor, and how the work will affect occupancy. If a landlord agrees to remediation, ask for a written timeline and a follow-up test after work is complete.
Documentation and resolving disputes
Good documentation strengthens any tenant request: save messages, photos of installation sites, test reports, receipts, and contractor estimates. If a landlord will not act, you can file with the provincial tenancy board or an appropriate intake office—include all documents and a clear timeline of your requests.
Key Takeaways
- Radon is a health risk that can be tested and fixed; tenants can request testing and mitigation.
- Start with a written request to your landlord and keep records of all communications and test results.
- If informal efforts fail, use the provincial tenancy intake or board and submit the appropriate application form.
FAQ
- Who should pay for radon testing in a rental?
- Tenants can request testing, and landlords are typically responsible for ensuring a unit is safe. If you cannot reach agreement, the tenancy board can decide who pays based on the case facts.
- What radon level requires action?
- Health Canada recommends action when long-term average radon concentrations exceed 200 Bq/m3; aim for mitigation and a follow-up test to confirm reductions.[3]
- What if my landlord refuses to fix high radon?
- Document your requests and test results, then consider filing an application with the provincial tenancy board or intake office to request an order for testing or mitigation.
How-To
- Write a clear email or letter to your landlord requesting a long-term radon test and offering to share results.
- Set a reasonable deadline (for example, 30 days) for the landlord to respond or to begin testing.
- Arrange or accept a professional test; save the report and photos as evidence.
- If the landlord refuses, obtain and submit the appropriate application to the provincial tenancy board with your documentation.
- After mitigation, request a follow-up test to confirm that radon levels are reduced below Health Canada guidance.
Help and Support / Resources
- Government of Prince Edward Island - Housing
- Residential Tenancies Act (Prince Edward Island)
- Residential Tenancies Board (PEI) service page
