Selling your Lonsdale home and unsure what to do about radon? You are not alone. Minnesota sellers are expected to share what they know about radon, and buyers often ask for recent tests. In this guide, you will learn exactly what to disclose, what paperwork to gather, and how to time testing so you avoid delays and inspire buyer confidence. Let’s dive in.
Minnesota radon disclosures in plain English
If you know anything about radon at your property, you should disclose it. Minnesota practice treats radon as a condition that falls under your general duty to disclose known material facts to buyers. That includes prior tests, mitigation systems, and any post-mitigation results.
You should also provide the state’s consumer information for buyers and sellers. The Minnesota Department of Health’s Radon Program offers clear guidance, brochures, and lists of qualified professionals. You can point buyers to the MDH resources and include copies in your disclosure package. See the Minnesota Department of Health’s Radon Program for consumer guidance and materials.
- MDH overview: the MDH Radon Program explains testing, mitigation, and real estate tips.
- Real estate specifics: MDH also outlines steps for sellers and buyers in its radon in real estate guidance.
Radon basics for Rice County sellers
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can build up indoors. Long-term exposure to elevated levels increases lung cancer risk, according to the CDC’s radon overview.
Both MDH and the EPA use an action level of 4 picocuries per liter. If your test result is 4 pCi/L or higher, mitigation is recommended. There is no universal “safe” level, but 4 pCi/L is the benchmark for taking action. You should assume any home in Rice County could test at or above that level and plan your timeline accordingly.
For a clear summary of how radon works and why testing matters, see the EPA’s Citizen’s Guide to Radon.
What to give buyers: your radon packet
Collect and share these items with your disclosure documents:
- Prior test reports: include dates, device type, who performed the test, and lab documentation or chain-of-custody if available.
- Mitigation records: installation date, contractor name and license, any permits, a description of the system, maintenance notes, and a post-mitigation test.
- State consumer info: include the current MDH radon brochure or fact sheet for buyers.
- Disclosure form responses: answer radon questions on the standard seller disclosure form used in our area and keep copies for your file.
Smart testing strategy and timing
Well-timed testing reduces uncertainty and helps you avoid last-minute renegotiations. Here is a practical approach for Lonsdale listings.
Test before you list
Pre-listing testing is often the simplest path. Hire a qualified tester for a short-term test that runs 2 to 7 days under closed-house conditions. Share the report in your MLS documents and disclosure packet. If results are 4 pCi/L or higher, decide whether to mitigate before listing or disclose the result and plan for credit or remediation.
Test during the inspection period
If testing happens during escrow, make sure the purchase agreement allows enough time to set the device, complete the test, review results, and schedule mitigation if needed. Short-term tests require closed-house conditions for 12 hours before and during the test. Plan for coordination so windows remain closed and the device stays undisturbed.
Retest after mitigation
If you install a system, complete a post-mitigation test to show effectiveness. Many sellers use a short-term retest after the system has run for a few days. Share that report with the buyer and include it in the closing file.
Consider long-term follow-up
If time allows, a long-term test of 90 or more days gives a better average. Most transactions do not have that much time. You can offer a long-term test after closing as a value-add if the buyer prefers additional data.
Who should do the test
Professional testing creates credibility and clear paperwork for buyers and lenders. Certified testers use continuous monitors or lab-analyzed devices and follow MDH and EPA protocols for placement and conditions. Consumer kits are cost-effective, but buyers may prefer a professional test for documentation. If you need help finding a professional, point to the MDH Radon Program for lists and guidance.
How to read results and decide next steps
- Under 4 pCi/L: Share the report, provide the MDH brochure, and note the level in your disclosures. Mitigation is not typically recommended at this level, but full transparency builds trust.
- 4 pCi/L or higher: Choose one of three paths. Mitigate before listing and provide a post-mitigation test. Disclose the result and offer a credit so the buyer mitigates after closing. Or negotiate remediation during the inspection period. In all cases, thorough documentation helps the deal move forward.
Typical costs and timelines
- Testing: A professional short-term test often runs in the low hundreds of dollars. Consumer kits cost less but may carry less weight with buyers.
- Mitigation: Many single-family systems fall in the low-thousands range, depending on home design and the scope of work. Get written bids, ask for a warranty, and plan for a post-install test.
- Time impact: A short-term test takes several days, and mitigation scheduling can add days to a few weeks. Planning early helps you close on time.
Quick seller checklist
- Step 1: Gather any prior test results and mitigation records.
- Step 2: Include the MDH radon brochure and answer radon questions on the disclosure form.
- Step 3: Decide on pre-listing testing. If you test, hire a qualified professional and request a written report.
- Step 4: If levels are 4 pCi/L or higher, get mitigation bids, decide whether to remediate now or credit the buyer, and plan a post-mitigation retest.
- Step 5: Keep all reports and receipts. Share copies with buyers and your closing agent.
A smoother sale in Lonsdale
Radon does not need to derail your sale. Clear disclosure, well-timed testing, and complete documentation show buyers you are prepared and honest. That confidence can reduce back-and-forth during inspections and keep your closing on track.
If you want help sequencing disclosures, coordinating testing, or presenting your home at its best, reach out to our local team. We combine hands-on guidance with thoughtful prep so you can move forward with confidence. Ready to talk next steps? Connect with Marissa Babcock to schedule your free consultation.
FAQs
Do I have to disclose radon in Minnesota if I never tested?
- You must disclose what you know, provide the MDH brochure, and indicate whether any testing or mitigation has been done; consider pre-listing testing to reduce buyer concerns.
What is the radon level that triggers mitigation?
- MDH and the EPA recommend mitigation at 4 pCi/L or higher, based on the EPA action level.
Will a radon disclosure scare off buyers in Rice County?
- Transparency usually helps; buyers expect radon to be possible in Minnesota, and clear test or mitigation documentation reduces friction during negotiations.
Who should perform a radon test for a home sale?
- A qualified professional is best for real estate transactions because buyers and lenders recognize the methods, devices, and documentation.
How long does radon testing take during escrow?
- A short-term test typically takes 2 to 7 days plus setup and reporting time, and it requires closed-house conditions for accuracy.
