Radon testing in Saint John

Health Canada's 2012 survey found 10.9% of 101 homes tested in the Region 2 health region above the guideline. The larger 2024 Cross-Canada survey reports 18.4% (1 in 5) of houses at or above the guideline for the Saint John, NB (Saint John CMA) metro area.

The two surveys aren't directly comparable: the 2024 study pooled about 69,000 volunteer tests and more of them were taken in basements, which partly explains its higher numbers. Neither can tell you about a single house, because neighbouring homes can differ widely.

• Use a long-term test of at least three months, with most of it in the heating season, which gives the most conservative result.
• Place the detector in the lowest level you spend four or more hours a day in, away from drafts, and follow the kit's instructions.
• If the result is above 200 Bq/m³, Health Canada recommends fixing it within a year, sooner if it's much higher.

Our full radon testing guide.

• NB Lung's Check Out Radon program lends free electronic screening kits, and the province says about one in four New Brunswick homes exceed the guideline.
• For a professional measurement or mitigation, search the C-NRPP directory by your Saint John postal code; it lists certified measurement and mitigation professionals.

• New Brunswick applies the 2020 National Building Code, which requires a radon rough-in in new homes.
• The province lists the Homeowner Repair Program and the Canadian Lung Association's Lungs Matter program (up to $1,500) as possible help with mitigation costs.
• If your level is high, mitigation (usually a sub-slab depressurization fan system installed by a C-NRPP-certified professional) typically costs $2,000–$4,000.