Radon: How to find a contractor

While many individuals choose to test for radon on their own with a DIY test kit ($10-$30), others may opt to hire a contractor to conduct their testing. This is particularly common during real estate transactions when an unbiased third-party is desired.

Short-term vs. long-term: What’s the difference?

There are two main types of radon tests: short-term and long-term. While short-term tests are conducted for as little as two days and up to 90 days, they are most often set out for two to three days (48 to 72 hours) in the lowest lived-in (or occupied) level of a home or building. Short-term tests are best used as an initial screening to determine if a home or building has a severe radon problem. Short-term tests can be used for mitigation decision-making when the radon results are high (above 8 picocuries per liter, or pCi/L). Long-term tests are conducted for a minimum of three months (90 days) and up to one year in the lowest lived-in (or occupied) level of a home or building. Long-term tests provide a year-round average radon level that can be used for mitigation decision-making, especially when initial short-term screening results are between 4 and 7 pCi/L. Visit our radon webpage to learn more about understanding radon test results.

Short-term tests usually come in a kit along with instructions from the test kit company or laboratory. After the test is complete, the kit is mailed to a laboratory. The laboratory analyzes the test kit contents for radon and sends results, usually within about a week of receiving the kit. Short-term test kits can be found at most local hardware stores, online retailers, and often for a discounted price through your regional Radon Information Center.

Long-term testing is recommended when an initial short-term test result is between 4 and 7 pCi/L. Several types of long-term testing devices are available, including simple do-it-yourself kits and professional-grade radon monitors. Check with your regional Radon Information Center to see whether they carry long-term test kits. Long-term test kits can also be found at larger hardware stores and online retailers.

Does the size of my building matter?

Yes. While testing single-family homes and other small buildings and rental units is easy and can be done by just about anyone, testing multi-family and other large buildings is much more complex. Building owners should work with a radon measurement professional when testing multi-family and other large buildings.

Consumer-grade digital monitors

Consumer-grade digital monitors are digital real-time radon monitoring devices often costing in the $100-$200 range. While these devices are gaining popularity for their ease of use and ability to connect with smart phones, they are not yet approved by the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP). This means that, unlike approved devices, they do not undergo routine performance testing and calibrations. DHS recommends confirming any high radon result from a consumer-grade digital monitor with an NRPP-approved test kit or device. A current list of approved short-term and long-term test kits and devices is available on the NRPP Approved Devices website.

If your home or building’s radon level is 4 pCi/L or higher, DHS recommends radon mitigation.

• Learn more about how to understand your test result. Note, it’s recommended to perform two tests before deciding to install a radon mitigation system.
• Learn about radon mitigation system installation and other radon reduction efforts.

The State of Wisconsin does not require contractors performing radon measurement or mitigation work to be state licensed or nationally certified. DHS recommends finding a radon professional through an EPA-recognized third-party credentialing organization that certifies radon professionals. Currently, there are two such organizations: the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) and the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB). Use the “Find A Professional” search function on each organization’s website to find a radon professional near you. Be sure to filter your search by the type of service needed (e.g., radon measurement vs. radon mitigation), since some professionals are only certified in one and not the other.

Nationally certified radon mitigators are trained to follow the EPA national standards for radon mitigation. Improper installation of a radon mitigation system could result in more radon in the indoor air, so it’s important that installation be done effectively. The average cost for a contractor to install a radon mitigation system is $1,000-$2,000.