To understand the importance of selecting the right radon contractor, we must understand the requirement to mitigate radon gas. Radon Mitigation is a process to reduce the gas concentration in the areas where people normally spend most of their time when at home.
Radon is a gas that is a key contributor to the radioactive elements in the environment, Not only that is a major reason for lung cancer amongst nonsmokers, approximately more than 21000 people die of this gas annually. Normally the mitigation process uses circulation of air through ventilation or by increasing the “per hour” air refreshing rate.
Radon does not have any odor or color, hence it cannot be detected by normal human senses, we need professionals to test the level of radon present in our homes and get rid of it. Statistics state that every 1 of 15 homes in the US, has above the normal accumulation of Radon, trust me that is alarming.
Having understood that, let us talk about things to keep in mind when selecting the right Radon Contractor. Radon mitigation is an extremely specialized task. Choosing the right radon contractor is perhaps the difference between life or death decision, hence selecting a suitable contractor is extremely important. Here are six basic questions to help you select a good radon contractor.
1. Social Circle Recommendation
Recommendations from family or friends, or professional circle, if people around you have used the services of any radon contractor and are happy there is a high possibility you too will be satisfied.
2. Do Your Research
Check the company website and check for testimonials given by customers, look for how long the company is in business, things like the turnover also states the company is making money or not. Read about its reputation on google, try ghost calling to check their customer orientation. Remember affordable services are not always good services. When it is about your health and safety of your family, one should not consider the monetary aspect as a priority.
3. Ask Employees
Learn about the company staff, if they are full time employed or hired in contract, take references and get them checked, check if the company is affiliated to any professional organization like NRSB (National Radon Safety Board). Make sure that you are comfortable with your radon contractor, and have done a thorough check about them before you allow them access to your premises.
4. Check Previous Work
Do not hire contractors who go door to door offering radon mitigation services, be cautious of unregistered vehicles, and make sure your contractor had a valid license, is certified, or registered to carry out radon mitigation. Most importantly never pay in cash.
5. Check Contractor Insurance
You need to check if the contractor is insured, radon mitigation is a serious business and at times requires a complete revamping of your property. So check if the contractor has proper insurance paper and the same is updated.
6. Get Paperwork Done
Get everything in writing, as your contractor to give you a proposal stating the scope of work, terms of the contract, clawback policies and not to forget the guarantee of performance.
We are confident that after reading this article, you will be much informed about things to look into before you decide on hiring a radon contractor. So choose wisely and be safe.