Commercial Radon Testing in Reno: Risks, Rules & Fixes

March is a natural reset for commercial properties in Northern Nevada. HVAC schedules shift, doors cycle more often, and buildings move from “winter mode” into full spring traffic. CIE Inspections recommends putting one invisible item on your March task list: radon testing. Radon doesn’t trigger an alarm or leave a smell – but it can quietly build up indoors, especially on lower levels.

Radon Is Invisible, Not Harmless

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can enter buildings through cracks, joints, and other openings where the structure meets the soil. It’s also a serious health concern over time—EPA notes radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and the second leading cause overall. Kansas State University’s extension guidance sums it up plainly: you can’t rely on senses or symptoms—testing is the only way to know what you’re dealing with.

Testing That Fits How Your Building Is Used

Commercial testing works best when it mirrors real occupancy. EPA guidance highlights that radon can show up in buildings of all kinds—so don’t assume commercial properties are immune.

Good times to test:

• New tenants or renewals (especially for medical, childcare, or high-occupancy spaces)

• Renovations that tighten the building envelope or change ventilation

• Change of use (storage converted to offices, finished lower-level suites, etc.)

• Foundation work, water intrusion, or persistent musty odors

• Annual risk reviews and documentation cycles

CIE Inspections can help you choose a practical testing approach and provide clear documentation for your records.

High Results? Fixes Are Proven

If levels come back elevated, don’t panic - radon can be mitigated. Mitigation typically combines targeted sealing with systems designed to move soil gas and vent it safely outside, depending on the foundation type and building layout.

A Simple Step That Protects People and Reduces Risk

Most owners don’t skip radon testing because they don’t care—they skip it because it feels like one more thing to do. The upside: testing is straightforward, results are measurable, and next steps are well-established. If you want clear answers and a professional plan, contact CIE Inspections at (775) 507-3383 to request a radon inspection or to bundle it with a commercial building inspection or mold testing. You’ll protect occupants, strengthen your documentation, and remove a hidden question mark from your property’s risk profile.