So I completed the radon testing and there was one glaring thing that stood out; the premise should be in a closed environment 12 hours prior to starting the test. So if I am doing a proper home inspection and opening all the doors and windows I don’t think that would be considered a closed environment, so wouldn’t I need to wait 12 hours to start the test? I know that everyone seems to offer 48 hour test post inspection which to me seems like they aren’t performing the test per the training. Unless opening all the windows and doors briefly is still considered a closed environment. I would love to hear everyone’s thoughts on this.
Ethan,
What I do, and most inspectors that I know, is place the radon device at least 48 hours prior to the general inspection. Before starting the home inspection, I retrieve the device.
You are correct that opening and closing windows prior to placing the device violates the closed house conditions of 12 hours prior.
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That is a great idea, don’t you get a lot of inspection request that come less then 48 hours?
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Not really. General I’m booked out 5 days.
You’re also in the driver’s seat when it comes to scheduling. Advise your client as to when you are going to place the radon device and schedule the home inspection accordingly.
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We cant leave test equipment prior to the inspection around my way. All it means is I add 12 hours onto the 48 hours minimum testing in the house and you are covered.
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Thanks for your feedback. I was wondering do you think it would be better to test for 60 hours or delay the test by 12 hours. It seems like if you add 12 hours it may bring the average down?
Check your State protocols about finding closed house conditions not being met.
With some CRM, you can set it to start 12 hours later.
Some States allow you to set other devices and add 12 others.
My State requires 12 hours of closed house prior to the test period.
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Yes, anytime you add to the 48 hours, it averages out whatever the time collected is. It can bring the overall average down.
If the home is occupied dosen’t the testing say that there should be closed conditions except for normal entering and leaving the home?
Doors have to open for the occupants to come and go.
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I’m not always able to set the device, timed to pick it up at the day of the inspection. In this case I set a start delay on my CRM, timed at least 12 hours after I’m done with the inspection.
It’s a bummer when you arrive 48+ hours before the inspection and closed house conditions are not present. Setting the device prior to the inspection, I make sure I set it at least 60 hours before the start of the inspection, just in case closed house conditions are not present.
Ditto that, (back when I still did testing)… in fact, I often set/placed mine between 60 to 96 hours prior to the start of the inspection! Arrive, finalize the test, pack it up, and begin the home inspection. No time worries… ever!
(I’m always amazed at all the posts I see regarding concerns surrounding the 48 hours)!!
I have to wonder how many of these inspectors are actually licensed and/or educated to test?
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Considering the questions I’ve seen over the years here, not too many follow ANSI Radon Testing Standards. First question to ask, “Can I see a copy of your Quality Assurance Plan?” Case in fact back in 2019, the questions from @echandler plus even replies. He should know the answer to his question. At the same time, good of him for asking! He wants to do it right.
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