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 International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the WHO's cancer research agency, has classified radon as a human carcinogen since 1988. The WHO estimates that radon causes 3 to 14% of all lung cancer cases, depending on the country.
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. 470/2020)
- The reference value is 300 Bq/m³ as an annual mean, for occupied rooms in residential buildings as well as workplaces (sec. 3 Radon Protection Ordinance)
- In radon precaution areas (Radonvorsorgegebiete), radon precaution measures are required for newly erected buildings with occupied rooms (sec. 92 para. 2 no. 2 Radiation Protection Act 2020, sec. 4 para. 2 Radon Protection Ordinance)
- Certain workplaces have been subject to a measurement duty since the Radiation Protection Act 2020: on the ground floor or in basements in radon protection zones, and in water supply facilities, underground work areas, show mines and caves, and radon spa facilities (sec. 98 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 is a reliable average over the entire measurement period.
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 remediation monitoring or when an initial assessment is needed.
Accompanying ground investigation
For new-build projects in radon precaution areas we recommend a soil air measurement before construction begins. This allows radon precaution 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 visit costs €290 (up to 150 m²), a virtual video visit €190. The video initial consultation is free.
Social rate: For low-income households we offer a social rate. Just mention it in the initial consultation, no proof required.
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, according to the WHO, the second most important cause of lung cancer after smoking (WHO Handbook on Indoor Radon, 2009). 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 fee is €290, up to 150 m² (larger floor areas priced in bands).
The Austrian reference value is 300 Bq/m³ as an annual mean (Radon Protection Ordinance, BGBl. II No. 470/2020). 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 to €5,000
- Floor slab sealing€1,000 to €4,000
- Ventilation system with radon protection€3,000 to €8,000
A radon measurement gives you clarity about the actual exposure before you decide on measures. 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. All services at a glance →