Not legal advice. This is a plain-English summary based on KDHE and Kansas Radon Program information. For a specific transaction, ask your real estate agent or attorney.
Who can test and mitigate
The Kansas Radon Certification Law took effect in 2011. It requires anyone who performs radon measurement or mitigation for someone else in Kansas to be certified by KDHE. Certification covers specific categories, so a measurement certification doesn't allow someone to install systems. Homeowners can still test their own home with a do-it-yourself kit.
Certified professionals also report radon test and mitigation data to KDHE, which helps the state track radon across Kansas.
Home sales: the contract statement
Kansas law (K.S.A. 58-3078a) requires real estate sales contracts for residential property to include a radon statement. It explains that radon is a health concern, that every Kansas homebuyer should know the radon level in the home, and that testing is recommended. The seller must also disclose any information they know about elevated radon in the home, such as previous test results or the presence of a mitigation system.
What the law does not do is require a radon test or a mitigation system before a sale. Testing is normally the buyer's choice during the inspection period, and any fix is negotiated between buyer and seller. Our home sale guide covers timing and negotiation.
New construction
Kansas does not have a statewide requirement for radon-resistant construction in new homes. Some builders install a passive radon pipe and gravel layer anyway, and individual cities may adopt building code provisions. If you're building, ask your builder to include radon-resistant features; it's far cheaper during construction than after.
Rentals
Kansas does not have a general statewide law requiring landlords to test rental homes for radon. Tenants can test with a short-term kit (with the landlord's permission if placing it requires access to a basement). If you're a landlord, testing and fixing high levels protects your tenants and avoids disputes.
A simple checklist for sellers
- Find any past radon test reports and the paperwork for an existing system (installer, date, fan model, follow-up test).
- Check that the system's manometer shows suction and the fan is running before listings photos and inspections.
- If you have no recent result, consider testing before you list so there are no surprises in the inspection period.
- Disclose what you know. Hiding a known high result can create legal problems later.
A simple checklist for buyers
- Read the radon statement in your contract and ask the seller for any known results.
- Schedule a test by a KDHE-certified measurement professional early in the inspection period.
- If the result is 4 pCi/L or more, negotiate: a seller-paid system, a credit, or a price change.
- If a system is installed before closing, ask for a post-mitigation test result.
Schools and workplaces
Kansas doesn't require radon testing in schools. The EPA encourages it, and some districts test voluntarily.
Where to check the details
- Kansas Radon Program (KDHE with K-State Engineering Extension): certified professional lists, test kit information, hotline.
- KDHE radon pages: certification rules and law text.
- EPA: health information and the Citizen's Guide to Radon.
Need a certified professional? Request a quote and one KDHE-certified pro who serves your area will contact you.
Common questions
Does a Kansas seller have to fix high radon?
No. Kansas law does not require a seller to mitigate. It requires the radon statement in the contract and disclosure of known elevated radon. Any fix is a matter of negotiation between buyer and seller.
Do I need a permit for a radon system?
It depends on the city. Some treat the electrical connection or roof penetration as permitted work. Ask your installer, who should know the local rules and include any permit in the quote.
Can I test my own home without certification?
Yes. Certification is required to test or mitigate for others. Homeowners can test their own home with a do-it-yourself kit.