Radon Testing in Pittsburgh

Updated October 2026 · 6 public sources cited

How common is high radon around Pittsburgh? DEP's public test records answer that. Here's what they show and how to test your own home the Pennsylvania way.

These are tests, not homes. Some homes were tested more than once, and the dataset doesn't say which tests were taken after a system was installed. Treat it as a local signal, not your home's odds. Statewide, DEP estimates 40% of homes tested exceed 4 pCi/L.¹²

Look up your ZIP code

DEP's website lets you search radon test results by ZIP code. The county health department points out that the data comes from short-term "closed up" tests, that some ZIP codes don't have enough results, and that one property's level doesn't predict the house next door.³ Only a test of your own home tells you your level.

Getting a kit in Allegheny County

• County giveaways. In January 2025, the Allegheny County Health Department gave out more than 900 free kits at its Housing and Community Environment office during Radon Action Month.⁴ Check with the department to see whether a current giveaway is running.³
• Stores and labs. Kits are sold by some labs, hardware stores and home centers.³
• Use a PA-certified lab. DEP says homeowners can test their own homes without certification, but should make sure the kit is analyzed by a Pennsylvania-certified laboratory.⁵

How DEP says to run a short-term test

• Close windows and outside doors and keep them closed as much as possible. For a 2–3 day test, close them at least 12 hours before you start.⁵
• Don't run fans that bring in outside air. Recirculating heating and AC fans are fine.⁵
• Skip 2–3 day tests during unusually severe storms or high winds.⁵
• Place the kit on the lowest lived-in level, in a regularly used room but not a kitchen or bathroom, at least 20 inches above the floor.⁵
• If you plan to sell, DEP notes buyers will probably base their decision on the basement level.⁵

Deciding whether to fix

EPA's testing steps: start with a short-term test. If it's 4 pCi/L or higher, follow up with a long-term test or a second short-term test. Fix the home if the long-term result is 4 or more, or consider fixing if the average of the two short-term tests is 4 or higher.⁶ DEP adds that the closer your two-test average is to 4, the less certain you can be about your year-round level.⁵

Testing for a Pittsburgh home sale

DEP says sellers can use two short-term tests run side by side, four inches apart, to decide whether to fix. Buyers often want a tester who isn't involved in the sale, and they may want readings in areas like a basement they plan to finish.⁵ If the home has been tested, the results must be disclosed at sale.⁵³

General information summarized from the public sources listed below. It isn't professional, medical or legal advice. A licensed professional who inspects your home can tell you what it needs.