New Illinois Law Requires Radon Disclosure to Tenants

Beginning January 1, 2012, Property Managers and Owners are required by Illinois state law to inform renters about any radon testing occurrence in their unit and what radon hazards, if any, may exist. Tenants may also request such a test if the unit hasn’t been tested before.
FitzGerald has worked with several reputable Environmental Health consultants and they all agree: the radioactive, colorless, odorless, tasteless element is a health hazard, and has the potential to be found in the ground and soils across Illinois. It is critical that testing be performed to provide safe, healthy dwellings, and the results communicated to residents.
According to Jonathon Monken, Director of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, “About one-third of all housing in Illinois is rented. This new law will help renters find out if their landlords have already tested for radon and, if so, what levels were detected. For units where no testing has been done, we hope more renters will be proactive and get their homes tested. Radon is one health risk that can be easily reduced. Testing your home is the important first step.”
IEMA has developed a brochure, Radon Guide for Tenants, to provide renters with more information about radon and how they can learn more about the levels of radon in their homes. The guide and additional information about radon hazards, testing and lists of licensed radon measurement and mitigation contractors can be found at www.radon.Illinois.gov.