Radon Problems? Make Sure Your Inspector Is Properly Licensed

High radon levels are common problem in many areas of Pennsylvania. Buyers can protect themselves by electing to have a radon inspection, but is that person permitted to perform those inspections?

The PAR Agreement of Sale (Form ASR) requires that buyers utilize “properly licensed or otherwise qualified professionals” for all inspections. But Pennsylvania law goes further. The Pennsylvania Radon Certification Act requires that only specially certified radon testers and mitigators can be used for this purpose. However, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection reports there have been several instances where a non-certified individual performed these services under the guise of being certified and actually raised the radon levels in the home, in addition to causing other issues in the home. DEP research has found that close to 40% of basements tested between 1989 were above the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guideline value of 4 pCi//L.

Fortunately, DEP has provided a resource which lists certified radon testers and mitigators. It is sorted by either county or alphabetically. Through the Radon Division, DEP offers a certification program for all companies or individuals who wish to conduct radon activities in Pennsylvania. The purpose of the certification program is to ensure that the radon industry performing these services is properly trained and qualified to do this work.

If you or your client is unsure about the authenticity of a radon inspector’s certification, you can contact DEP’s Radon Division at 717-783-3594 or 800-237-2366.

High levels of radon have a strong presence in Pennsylvania, and have been found in all 67 counties. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has estimated that approximately 21,000 people die each year in this country due to radon exposure. Do your due diligence and make sure your radon inspector and mitigator is properly certified.