Radon Gas in UK HomesTesting & Protection Guide 2026
Radon is the UK's second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. It causes around 1,100 deaths per year—more than drunk driving.
UK Radon Statistics
How Radon Enters Homes
Radon is naturally produced from uranium in soil and rocks. It seeps into buildings through:
- • Cracks in solid floors and walls
- • Construction joints
- • Gaps around pipes and cables
- • Suspended floors
- • Cavities in walls
- • The water supply (in some areas)
Radon tends to accumulate in ground-floor and basement rooms. Levels are usually higher in winter when buildings are more sealed.
Affected Areas in the UK
| Region | Risk Level | Homes Affected |
|---|---|---|
| Cornwall | Very High | 30%+ of homes above action level |
| Devon | High | 15-30% of homes |
| Somerset | High | 15-25% of homes |
| Northamptonshire | High | 10-20% of homes |
| Derbyshire | Moderate | 5-15% of homes |
| Scotland (parts) | Moderate | 5-10% of homes |
Note: Elevated radon can occur anywhere. Testing is the only way to know your home's level.
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What To Do
1. Test Your Home
Order radon detectors from UK Radon or approved suppliers. Place them in main living areas for 3 months. Cost is around £30-50. Test even if not in a high-risk area.
2. Understand Your Results
UK action level is 200 Bq/m³. Below 100 is generally considered low risk. Above 200, mitigation is recommended. WHO recommends acting at 100 Bq/m³.
3. Mitigation If Needed
Professional radon mitigation (radon sump systems) typically costs £500-2000 and can reduce levels by 90%+. Simple measures like improving ventilation can also help.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from uranium in soil and rocks. It's colorless, odorless, and can accumulate in buildings. Radon decays into radioactive particles that damage lung tissue when inhaled.
Where is radon a problem in the UK?
Radon levels vary by geology. Higher levels are found in Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Northamptonshire, and parts of Scotland and Wales. However, elevated levels can occur anywhere—testing is the only way to know.
How do I test for radon?
Order radon test kits from UK Radon or approved suppliers. Place detectors in living areas for 3 months (ideally in winter). The action level is 200 Bq/m³. Testing typically costs £30-50.
Can radon be reduced?
Yes, radon mitigation is effective. Methods include: increasing ventilation, installing a radon sump system, sealing floors and walls, or positive pressurization. Professional mitigation typically costs £500-2000.
Do air purifiers remove radon?
No, air purifiers cannot remove radon gas itself. They can capture some radon decay products (radioactive particles), but this is not a substitute for proper radon mitigation at the source.
Important Note
Air purifiers cannot remove radon gas. If you have elevated radon, professional mitigation is required. Test your home first to know if action is needed.