Radon testers and mitigators (radon reduction contractors) are not licensed or regulated in Michigan. However, there are two national organizations that offer radon measurement and mitigation certification, and if you choose to hire a professional to assist you, you are encouraged to hire a certified individual.

The two national organizations are the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) and the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB). The DEQ Indoor Radon Program or your local health department can provide you with lists of measurement and mitigation service providers certified by these organizations, or you can visit the organization websites for the most complete and up-to-date information: 

• NEHA 
• NRSB 
   

The DEQ has no regulatory authority over radon testers or mitigators, and does not conduct audits or inspect their work. This presents a “Buyer Beware” situation. As with any other home improvement, you are encouraged to choose a radon contractor with care. Get more than one estimate, ask for references, and compare proposals, not only with each other, but also with the existing standards or guidelines. (Choosing an individual certified by NEHA or the NRSB helps assure that the person is trained and knowledgeable, but you should dig deeper to ensure that he/she is the right person for the job.)

The EPA Consumer’s Guide to Radon Reduction provides more information about selecting a contractor, and the Radon Mitigation Standards offer detail about installing safe and affordable radon mitigation systems. Both documents can be found online at the EPA radon publications website or they can be obtained from your local health department. Copies are also available by calling the Michigan Indoor Radon Program at 1-800-RADON GAS/1-800-723-6642.

Want to become a tester or mitigator?

If you’re interested in becoming a professional tester or mitigator, information about training and/or certification can be obtained at the NEHA or NRSB websites, and at the Midwest Universities Radon Consortium website.

As noted above, Michigan does not license or otherwise regulate radon testers or mitigators, but many of your clients will be interested in whether or not you are certified. Sometimes those added credentials can make a difference as to whether you get hired for the job or one of your competitors is chosen instead.

Also, please keep in mind that several of our neighboring states (and many other states across the country) do have some form of regulatory authority over testers and mitigators. If you plan on doing business in another state, check with that state’s radon program [click here for a list of radon contacts] to find out if there are any rules or regulations pertaining to your profession.