What is radon?
Radon (Rn-222) is a naturally occurring radioactive noble gas produced by the decay of uranium-238 in soil and rock. It is colourless and odourless and enters buildings through cracks, joints and gaps in the foundation.
In enclosed spaces, radon can accumulate and reach the lungs via the breathing air. The radioactive decay products damage lung tissue and can cause lung cancer. The WHO classifies radon as a confirmed carcinogen — it causes an estimated 3–14% of all lung cancer cases worldwide.
Radon in Austria
Austria, due to its geology — particularly in the Alps and crystalline regions — has one of the highest radon exposures in Europe. Key facts:
- 104 radon protection zones are designated in the Radon Protection Ordinance (BGBl. II No. 407/2020)
- The reference value is 300 Bq/m³ as an annual mean for existing buildings
- Stricter building regulations apply to new builds in radon protection zones
- Workplaces have also been required to be measured since the Radiation Protection Act 2020
- The WHO recommends a significantly lower value of 100 Bq/m³
How we measure radon
Long-term measurement with dosimeters
The standard method: passive detectors (dosimeters) are placed in the relevant rooms for at least 3 months — ideally during the heating season when windows remain closed. Evaluation is carried out in the accredited laboratory. The result represents a reliable average value.
Real-time monitoring with sensors
For quick orientation or accompanying monitoring we use electronic radon sensors. These deliver hourly readings and show daily fluctuations. Particularly useful during renovation monitoring or when an initial assessment is needed.
Accompanying ground investigation
For new-build projects in radon protection zones we recommend a soil air measurement before construction begins. This allows radon protection measures to be designed to the precise requirements.
Costs
Every radon measurement is different. Number of measurement points, method choice (long-term dosimeters ≥3 months vs. real-time sensors) and building type vary significantly. We prepare a transparent quote after the free initial consultation — no obligation.
The site inspection flat fee is €290 (flat, regardless of scope). The video initial consultation is free.
In the initial consultation we jointly check whether your municipality is in a radon protection zone and which measurement strategy makes sense.
Frequently asked questions about radon testing
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive noble gas produced by the decay of uranium in the ground. It enters buildings through cracks and joints and is, after smoking, the second most common cause of lung cancer. Austria has 104 designated radon protection zones.
The standard method is a long-term measurement over at least 3 months using passive dosimeters. For quick orientation we also use electronic real-time sensors that deliver immediate results.
Radon measurements are too situational for a fixed price — costs depend on the number of measurement points, duration (long-term ≥3 months vs. real-time) and building type. In the free initial consultation we check the radon risk map to see whether your municipality is in a protection zone and prepare a transparent quote. The site inspection flat fee is €290 — flat, regardless of scope.
The Austrian reference value is 300 Bq/m³ as an annual mean. The WHO recommends 100 Bq/m³. If this is exceeded, remediation measures such as improved ventilation or radon extraction are advisable.
What does radon remediation cost?
Typical remediation costs (indicative figures)
- Radon extraction (sub-slab depressurisation)€2,000–€5,000
- Floor slab sealing€1,000–€4,000
- Ventilation system with radon protection€3,000–€8,000
A radon measurement gives you clarity — before you expose yourself and your family to an invisible risk. We prepare a transparent quote after a brief initial consultation.
After structural measures we offer a verification measurement to document the effectiveness of radon remediation. More on renovation monitoring →