New Iowa Law Requires Radon Mitigation in New Homes. What Does That Mean for Existing Homes?

If you've been wondering whether radon is really a concern in Iowa, state lawmakers just gave homeowners a very clear answer.

In May 2026, Governor Kim Reynolds signed House File 2297 into law, requiring all newly built single-family homes and duplexes in Iowa to include passive radon mitigation systems during construction. The law takes effect July 1, 2026, and received overwhelming bipartisan support. This is a major step forward for public health, but it also raises an important question: If new homes now require radon mitigation systems, what about the millions of existing homes across Iowa that don't have any radon protection at all?

For homeowners in Des Moines, Ankeny, Waukee, Altoona, Johnston, Urbandale, and throughout Central Iowa, the answer is simple:

Testing for radon has never been more important.

What Is Radon and Why Are Iowa Homes at Risk?

Many homeowners still ask, "What is radon?" or "What does radon do to homes or the human body?"

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium breaks down in soil and rock. It enters homes through foundation cracks, sump pits, utility penetrations, and other

openings. The biggest challenge is that you cannot see, smell, or taste it. Without a radon detector or professional radon testing, you would never know that you have radon gas at your home. 

The Environmental Protection Agency designates all 99 Iowa counties as Zone 1, the highest-risk category for elevated radon levels. In other words, every home in Iowa has the potential

for radon exposure.

What Does Radon Do to Your Health?

Another common question is, "What does radon do?" Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Health experts estimate thousands of lung cancer deaths each year are linked directly to radon exposure.

Many homeowners search for:

•    Symptoms of radon

•    Radon gas exposure symptoms

•    Radon poisoning

•    Radon exposure symptoms

•    Health hazards of radon exposure

The reality is that radon exposure symptoms typically do not appear immediately. Radon-related health issues often develop after years of exposure, which is why testing and prevention

are so important. In fact, there are usually no obvious signs of radon inside a home. The only way to know your risk level is through residential radon testing.

Why the New Iowa Law Matters

Lawmakers didn't pass this legislation because radon is a minor concern. They passed it because Iowa continues to experience some of the highest radon concentrations in the country. The new law requires passive systems in new construction because it's far less expensive to address radon during construction than after a home is completed.

Builders and legislators noted that installing passive radon mitigation during construction can cost only a few hundred dollars, while retrofitting a home later can cost significantly more.

The law effectively acknowledges something radon professionals have known for years: Radon mitigation works.

Existing Homes Still Need Professional Radon Testing

While new construction standards are improving, the vast majority of homes in Central Iowa were built before this law.

That means thousands of homeowners still need:

•    Professional radon testing

•    Radon inspection services

•    Radon mitigation Iowa solutions

•    Radon reduction systems

•    Radon remediation services

Many homeowners assume a newer home means lower radon levels. Unfortunately, that's not always true.

We've seen brand-new homes test above the EPA action level and older homes test low. Every property is unique, which is why professional radon testing remains essential.

How Does Radon Mitigation Work?

A radon mitigation contractor installs a radon remediation system designed to safely capture radon gas beneath the foundation and vent it above the roofline before it can enter living

spaces. A typical system includes:

•    Collection point beneath the foundation

•    PVC vent piping

•    Radon fan

•    Monitoring components

The goal is simple: Reduce indoor radon levels and improve indoor air quality.

Many homes can see significant reductions after installation, often bringing levels well below the EPA action level.

Do You Need a Radon Fan Replacement or Radon Mitigation System Maintenance?

If your home already has a mitigation system, maintenance still matters. Over time, radon fans wear out and may require replacement. A failed fan can allow radon levels to rise again without homeowners realizing it. If your system is older or you haven't tested recently, it may be time for:

•    Radon fan replacement

•    System performance testing

•    Follow-up radon inspection

•    Professional evaluation by a radon contractor

How Much Does a Radon Mitigation System Cost?

One of the most common questions we receive is:

•    How much is a radon mitigation system?

•    What is the radon mitigation cost?

•    What is the cost of a radon mitigation system?

The answer depends on your home's design, foundation type, and installation requirements. However, when compared to the long-term health risks associated with radon exposure, mitigation is one of the most affordable indoor air quality investments a homeowner can make.

What Iowa Homeowners Should Start Doing

The state's new law requiring passive radon systems in new homes is an important victory for Iowa families. It recognizes that radon is a real health concern and that prevention saves lives. But if your home was built before July 2026, this law doesn't protect you. The only way to know if your family is being exposed to elevated radon levels is through professional radon testing. Whether you need radon removal, radon abatement, a radon mitigation contractor, radon installers, or simply want to learn more about your home's risk, taking action today can help  protect your family's health for years to come. At Iowa Radon Defense, we help homeowners throughout Des Moines, Ankeny, and Central Iowa with professional radon testing, residential radon mitigation, radon fan replacement, and  long-term radon reduction solutions.  Because when it comes to radon, knowing your number is the first step toward protecting your family.

Get a free estimate from Iowa Radon Defense here: https://www.iowaradondefense.com/service-area.html

There is no cost to ask. It might save you and your family's life.