Indoor Radon levels in British Columbia
Updated
Long term exposure to elevated radon levels is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. This map offers unique insight into radon levels being measured in homes in your region. Learn how to test your home for radon.
What is this map of British Columbia showing me?
Here you can see the current indoor radon levels in the homes of your neighbors in British Columbia who use Airthings* digital radon monitors.
Health Canada states that radon is found in nearly every Canadian home and the only way to know how much is to test. So if you don’t know how your home’s radon level, then make a plan to test it today.
Is the radon risk high in British Columbia?
According to the 2024 Cross-Canada Survey of Radon , “approximately 1 in 5 (17.8%) of people residing in Canada live in buildings with radon levels at or above the current radon guideline of 200 Bq/m³.” This is the level at which Health Canada recommends taking mitigating action to reduce radon levels.
While a region’s geology is a key contributor to determining the risk for elevated indoor radon levels, it is by no means the only factor. The 2024 study also concluded that semi-detached homes reporting higher levels than semi-detached or row-style homes.
Our map cannot tell you if your home is likely (or not likely) to have a radon problem. In fact, it demonstrates that homeowners in the same region are reporting varying levels of indoor radon. The only way to know is to test.
What causes high radon levels indoors?
Indoor radon levels vary due to factors like soil composition, building foundation type, ventilation, and home construction. Cracks, sump pumps, and basements can increase radon gas entry points. Weather, air pressure, and lifestyle habits also impact radon accumulation, leading to differences between neighboring homes.
Because there are so many variables aside from the area’s geology that can cause radon to accumulate, Health Canada recommends testing every home. It’s the only way to know your radon levels for sure.
How can I test my home for radon?
Health Canada emphasizes the importance of conducting a long-term test of at least 3 months, preferably during the colder part of the year. Long-term DIY test kits may be placed in your home, then sent to a lab for testing after the full test period.
Digital radon detectors, also called electronic radon monitors, are an easy-to-use, long-term alternative. Just be sure to use one that has been tested and approved by the C-NRPP.
Since radon levels indoors fluctuate over weeks and months, digital detectors offer a more complete picture of radon in your home and run continuously for years. Learn more about C-NRPP approved Airthings radon monitors here.
Read more about radon in Canada
Here are some official sources for radon recommendations, policies and resources:
- 2024 Cross-Canada Survey of Radon
- Take Action on Radon(national initiative website)
Disclaimer
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the data contained within these datasets. This map is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a guide to determining if you should test your home for radon.
Health Canada clearly recommends that all homeowners should test their homes for radon, regardless of location.
*Data from the monitors is shared here with the homeowner’s express permission. The data is anonymized and aggregated for visualization.*
Health Canada recommends testing your home during the heating seasons of the year