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SB 2424

AN ACT RELATING TO BUSINESSES AND PROFESSIONS -- REAL ESTATE SALES DISCLOSURES

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Pete Appollonio and 9 co-sponsors

Rhode Island would require sellers to fund pre-closing radon tests and, if elevated, install mitigation before closing to protect buyers.

06/18/2026 Signed by Governor
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 2424

Overview

SB 2424, introduced in the Rhode Island Senate in 2026, would add a mandatory radon testing and mitigation requirement to residential real estate transactions. The measure sets standards for when radon tests must be conducted, who bears the costs, and what happens if elevated radon levels are found. It applies to most residential property transactions, with specific exemptions.

Purpose and intent

  • To protect homebuyers and sellers from exposure to unsafe radon levels by ensuring radon is tested and mitigated in residential real estate transactions.
  • To create a clear process for testing, disclosure, and mitigation prior to closing, with costs allocated to the selling party.

Key provisions

  • Definitions:

    • Radon: Radioactive gas from natural soil/rock/water sources.
    • Radon test: A measurement using an appropriate device, conducted by a certified/licensed person, following device-specific protocols.
    • Residential real estate transaction: Includes sales of single-family to multi-family residential properties, but excludes non-residential commercial properties and certain tourist/transient residential properties.
    • Unsafe radon levels: Radon levels above 4.0 pCi/L (EPA action level).

  • Transactions not requiring radon testing (exemptions):

    • Foreclosure-related transfers (lender/affiliate acquisitions, sheriff’s or tax sales, court-appointed trustee sales).
    • Transfers where the home will be converted to non-residential use or demolished.
    • Transfers by devise (will or intestate inheritance).

  • Mandatory radon testing and disclosure:

    • A radon test must be performed within one year prior to closing for applicable residential transactions (not exempted).
    • Results of tests conducted within that year must be provided to the selling and buying parties and any lender designated by the buyers.

  • Costs and control:

    • The seller bears the cost of the radon test.
    • If requested, the buyer may also have an independent radon test at the buyer’s expense.

  • Mitigation obligations:

    • If the radon test indicates unsafe levels, a radon mitigation system must be installed by a certified/licensed professional prior to closing.
    • The seller bears the cost of installation.
    • After mitigation, a radon test must be performed before closing to verify effectiveness; the seller bears the cost of this post-mitigation test, and the buyer may request an additional test at their expense.

  • Effective date: The act takes effect upon passage.

Who is affected

  • Primary: Buyers and sellers of residential real estate in Rhode Island.
  • Industry: Real estate brokers, attorneys, home inspectors, and licensed radon testing and mitigation professionals.
  • Lenders, where applicable, would receive radon test results if a buyer’s lender requires them.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The radon test must occur no more than one year before closing.
  • Results must be shared with buyer, seller, and designated lender prior to closing.
  • If elevated radon is found, mitigation must be installed before closing, followed by a post-mitigation test prior to closing.
  • The bill is scheduled for committee consideration and potential passage in 2026, with sponsor and co-sponsor details listed.

Potential impacts

  • Increased costs for sellers (radon testing and potential mitigation) but greater protection for buyers.
  • Greater clarity and standardization in disclosures and mitigation timing to prevent post-closing disputes related to radon.
  • Possible impact on transaction timelines due to testing and mitigation requirements, particularly in cases needing mitigation.
  • Encourages reliance on certified/licensed radon professionals, aligning with consumer safety standards.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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