Asking whether a radon result applies to the property being sold
Learn how to determine if a radon test result is applicable to your Illinois property, ensuring accurate disclosures and compliance with state law.
The short answer
To determine if a radon result applies to your property, verify that the address and unit identifiers on the report match the subject property exactly. Radon test findings are site-specific and cannot be reliably extrapolated from nearby homes. Sellers are required to disclose material defects of which they have actual knowledge, making accurate identification of report scope essential for compliance.
Matching Reports to Property Records
Ensure the property address on the radon report is identical to the address being sold. If you are selling a condominium or unit within a cooperative, verify if the report covers the specific unit or only the building's common elements. The Residential Real Property Disclosure Act does not necessarily cover common elements, making this distinction critical.
Addressing Incomplete Information
If you possess a report that references an adjacent property or a previous version of the house before a major addition, do not assume it applies to the current structure. A professional radon inspector can evaluate whether an existing test remains representative of the current building footprint. If the result is ambiguous, ask the professional to clarify its applicability in writing.
Defining Material Defects
A material defect is a condition that significantly impairs health or safety or substantially affects property value. If a radon report indicates a condition meeting this definition, it must be disclosed. If you are unsure whether a specific result qualifies as a material defect, consult with a licensed professional to understand your obligations under the Disclosure Act.
Planning Your Disclosure Statement
Consider this planning example: A seller finds a report from five years ago. To be compliant, they must verify the report covers the current structure. If it does not cover the current footprint, they must either order a new test from a licensed professional or clarify the limitation in their disclosure statement to avoid potential liability for misleading information.
Checklist
- Verify the address on the report matches your property exactly.
- Check if the report specifies the correct unit number for condos.
- Confirm the report date is associated with the current building structure.
- Review if the radon report was provided by an IEMA-OHS licensed professional.
- Ask a professional if an existing test is representative of the home's current layout.
Common questions
Can I use a neighbor's radon test to fulfill my disclosure obligation?
No, you must disclose knowledge regarding the specific property being sold; consult a professional to obtain an accurate report for your unit.
What if the radon report lists a different owner?
The report's applicability depends on the property address, not the owner; confirm the report covers the structure and consult a professional if you have doubts.
Sources
- Illinois Residential Real Property Disclosure ActChecked October 12, 2026
- IEMA-OHS — Real estate radon guidanceChecked October 12, 2026
- EPA — Real estate lead-hazard disclosuresChecked October 12, 2026
- FEMA — Flood mapsChecked October 12, 2026
This guide is general educational content from SQFT IO, prepared with AI assistance. It is not legal, tax or loan advice. Talk with a licensed attorney, tax professional or lender about your situation. SQFT IO Illinois license 478.027617.