Finding the Right Mitigator
The following are some questions you might want to ask anyone
you're considering hiring to install your new radon mitigation
system. And make sure that the person answering them is the one
who will be doing the work- the answers won't help you if the
company sends someone else!
Also remember that sometimes you get what you pay for. You don't
have to go with the most expensive company, but often the least
expensive company is cutting corners in ways that are not in your best
interest.
Also take a look at
NEHA's checklist.
What kind of training do you have?
Make sure your mitigator has been professionally trained. Kelly
has been trained by the
National Radon Proficiency Program,
one of the top programs for radon mitigation.
Are you certified? By whom?
You should always choose a mitigator that has been certified
by NEHA or NRPP.
Check that the employees or sub-contractors sent out to do your
job will be certified and fully trained, not just the person
you talk to.
Colorado does not require mitigators to be licensed, so it is
particularly important to verify that anyone you are considering
truly is certified by a professional organization that requires
members to follow EPA standards, such as NEHA.
What is your NEHA number?
If you have any doubts, you can verify their NEHA membership on
the web at RadonGas.org.
See the link at the top of this page to verify ours.
Are you the one who will be doing the work?
Sometimes the owner gives you an estimate but sends out
subcontractors to do the job. If you choose Breathe Easy, the
owner will be at your job, guaranteed.
How will you check after installation that the system
actually works?
The company should provide you with a short-term radon test that
you can install yourself to verify that radon levels are below
the EPA recommended level. If the company does the testing, you
have to take their word for it that their system is working.
Breathe Easy provides a short-term test so that you can see the
results for yourself.
Does your work come with any kind of warranty?
The company should guarantee its work as well as the equipment used
in your mitigation system. Also find out how long the warranty lasts
and if it is transferrable. Breathe Easy guarantees systems for
one year and allows you to transfer this warranty to the next owner.
Do you need to come out and see my house before you know
what is involved?
The answer should be "yes!" There are many different types of
mitigation systems and not all are appropriate in each situation.
Estimates should depend on the size and type of basement or crawlspace,
presence of sump pits, exit route, wall types, and many other factors.
If someone gives you an estimate over the phone, how can they know
what's involved, much less what it will cost them?
Can you be sure the design they pick will be the one you want?
We'll walk through our plan with you so that you can be comfortable
with the final result.
Do you follow EPA standards and all building codes?
All mitigators should do their work according to EPA standards and
state and local codes.
Do you provide free estimates?
If a company does not provide free estimates, ask why. Breathe
Easy will come out and give you a free estimate, usually within
a day or two of your call.
Do you have any references?
As with any business, if no one will say good things about their
work, will you?
| 