What radon mitigation costs in Pennsylvania

What does radon mitigation cost in Pennsylvania?

PA DEP says permanent radon systems typically cost between $800 and $1,200. Its consumer's guide gives a wider range of $500 to $2,000, with an average of $1,000.

DEP compares it to other common home repairs, like painting or putting in a new water heater.

What changes the price?

DEP lists these:

• Local market prices
• What's under your slab
• The size of your home's footprint
• How the house was built
• Which radon reduction methods it needs

DEP also says a house with more than one foundation type may need a combination of methods.

What does it cost to run?

PA DEP says annual operating costs may be from $30 to over $100, depending on fan size, how much crack sealing was possible at install, and other things. DEP also says most systems lose some heated or cooled air, which can add a little to your utility bills.

Later on, DEP puts a replacement fan at approximately $250 to $350, including parts and labor. Most fans have a five-year warranty and typically last much longer.

What should a quote include?

DEP's checklist for comparing contractors asks whether the proposal includes:

• Proof of state certification
• Proof of liability insurance, bonding and any local licenses
• Diagnostic testing before the system is designed
• A warning device that tells you if the system stops working
• Testing after installation
• A guarantee to reduce radon to 4 pCi/L or below, and for how long

DEP's fact sheet adds: check that the written guarantee is to get the home below 4 pCi/L for the quoted price, and that what you were told matches what's written.

The contract should give the total cost, including taxes and permit fees, the deposit, when payment is due, and whether any warranty or guarantee transfers if you sell the house.

Should you get more than one quote?

PA DEP says it's wise to get more than one estimate, ask for references, and contact some of them. It also says a cheaper system may cost more to run and maintain. Compare the certified companies serving York County.