Radon is an invisible, naturally occurring gas that can build up indoors and affect tenant health. If you rent in Saskatchewan, knowing how to test, document results, and ask for mitigation are key renter protections. This guide explains what radon levels mean, how tenants can arrange reliable testing, what typical mitigation options look like, and when to involve your landlord or the provincial tenancy office. It uses plain language so renters can understand responsibilities, deadlines, and forms they may need to file in Saskatchewan. Practical steps and links to official sources make it easier to act promptly and keep your home safe.
Why radon matters for tenants in Saskatchewan
Radon is linked to lung cancer at long-term exposure levels. Health Canada recommends taking action when indoor air radon levels exceed 200 becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m3). Tenants should know that testing is the first step; a single short test may not be reliable, so follow test kit instructions carefully and keep records to show your landlord.
How tenants can test for radon
There are two reliable testing approaches: a long-term alpha track test (3 months or more) and continuous electronic monitors. Long-term tests better reflect average exposure. To test:
- Order or buy a Health Canada–certified long-term test and place it in the lowest lived-in level for at least 3 months.
- Follow placement and timing instructions exactly and keep photos of placement and the packaging for your records.
- Send the test to the lab or read the results according to the kit instructions and save the report as evidence.
Interpreting results and next steps
If your long-term result is at or above 200 Bq/m3, discuss mitigation with your landlord in writing and request a remediation plan. If the landlord does not respond or refuses reasonable mitigation, tenants can file an application with the provincial tenancy office. Keep all written communication and test reports as evidence for any dispute.
Who pays and who is responsible?
Responsibilities can depend on the lease and local rules. In many situations landlords arrange and pay for structural mitigation that reduces radon entry, but tenants often arrange initial testing. If a landlord refuses to mitigate after confirmed high levels, tenants should follow dispute steps with the Office of Residential Tenancies.
Required forms and official contacts in Saskatchewan
Key official resources for Saskatchewan renters include the provincial tenancy office and official guidance on testing. Commonly used forms include an application to the tenancy office to request dispute resolution or hearings when landlords do not address serious health or habitability issues:
- Application for Dispute Resolution (used to ask the Office of Residential Tenancies to schedule a hearing when the landlord won’t address radon mitigation) — submit with copies of test reports and written requests to the landlord.[2]
- Notice or request templates (useful for documenting your mitigation request to the landlord; include dates, test results, and a clear mitigation request) — keep a copy and proof of delivery.
Both forms and guidance are available from the provincial residential tenancies office and provincial publications. The governing legislation is the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan), which sets dispute procedures and timelines.
Communicating with your landlord
When you share test results, do so in writing and offer a clear mitigation request and a reasonable timeline. Example: ask for a written mitigation plan within 14 days and a start date within 30 days. If the landlord agrees, confirm the plan and keep receipts for any tenant-paid services if reimbursement is expected.
- Ask the landlord for a written mitigation plan and dates for work to begin and end.
- Keep copies of emails, photos, and receipts to document progress and costs.
When to involve the Office of Residential Tenancies
If a landlord fails to respond to documented test results or refuses reasonable mitigation, tenants can file an application for dispute resolution with the Office of Residential Tenancies to request a hearing. Prepare your evidence: long-term test results, photos, dates of communication, and any estimates or contractor reports.
Related tenant guidance
For general renter health and safety guidance, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for practical tips on indoor air quality and repairs. For provincial rights and process information, review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.
To find rental listings and better understand local markets while you look for safer housing options, consider Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- How long should I test for radon?
- Use a long-term test of at least three months for the most reliable average result; short tests can miss seasonal variation.
- What level requires mitigation?
- Health Canada recommends taking action at or above 200 Bq/m3; aim to reduce levels below that guideline.
- Can my landlord be ordered to fix radon problems?
- Yes — if you have documented high results and the landlord refuses to mitigate, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for dispute resolution and a remedial order.
How-To
- Buy or request a long-term radon test and place it in the lowest occupied level for at least three months as directed.
- Send the results to the lab (if required), save the report, and photograph the test placement and packaging.
- Send a written mitigation request to your landlord with the test results and request a written plan within 14 days.
- If the landlord does not act, file an Application for Dispute Resolution with the Office of Residential Tenancies, attaching your evidence.
