What Real Estate Agents Should Know About Radon and Mold Testing

Radon and mold questions come up often enough in real estate transactions that a working understanding of both — timelines, disclosure basics, and what testing actually covers — helps agents guide clients more confidently, without needing to become an expert in either.

Understanding Testing Timelines

On timing: both radon and mold testing typically take about 3 business days total, which generally fits comfortably within a standard 10-day inspection contingency, even scheduled together in one appointment.

Tighter contingency periods (5 days or less) are still workable but benefit from scheduling testing as early as possible in the window.

Illinois Radon Disclosure Basics

On disclosure: in Illinois specifically, sellers are legally required to disclose known radon hazards under the Radon Awareness Act, and must provide a specific IEMA pamphlet before a buyer becomes bound under contract.

But the law requires disclosing what's known, not requiring the seller to test in the first place.

That distinction matters: a "no known radon issues" disclosure doesn't necessarily mean the property has actually been tested, which is part of why many buyers choose to test independently regardless of what's disclosed.

Understanding the Difference Between Inspection and Testing

On scope: it's worth knowing the difference between a general home inspection (structure and systems, visual walkthrough) and radon/mold testing (specialized equipment and accredited lab analysis).

Some inspectors offer radon or mold as an add-on, others don't, and the reliability of an add-on service can vary.

Why Testing Independence Matters

On independence: testing companies that also perform remediation or mitigation have an inherent incentive worth being aware of when recommending a provider to clients.

An independent testing-only provider doesn't carry that conflict.


Schedule a radon or mold test today with DezAir Quality Testing online at dezairqualitytesting.com.