Colorado is one of only three zone 1, high-risk states in the US. Legislators have seen the data and decided to pass consumer protection and awareness laws. These laws have no mandates for homeowners, but they do raise awareness of this Class A carcinogen. If your dwelling touches the soil anywhere in the US, please follow the EPA guidance and perform a laboratory test for radon every five years for the life of your home.
If you live that sweet, sweet van life; then party on! No radon testing for you.
***2023 LEGISLATIVE UPDATE. COLORADO’S RADON DISCLOSURE BILL HAS PASSED WAS SIGNED INTO LAW 06/05/2023 READ THE FULL ACT HERE***
Is your radon pro licensed? Check with the state by clicking HERE
In May of 2023, Colorado passed SB23-206 which raises radon awareness for new home buyers and renters. Click the link above to read more. The new law requires landlords and home sellers to give written disclosures on the risks of radon to future occupants. No mandates for testing or mitigation. More information below:
Does SB23-206 require me to do a radon test?
No, there are no mandates with this law. Like lead or asbestos, this is an awareness piece designed to educate buyers on the dangers they may face in their new home.
Does SB23-206 force a seller to pay for a radon test?
No, the sellers’ only responsibility is to follow the disclosure notices. However, if they do not give these documents to the buyer, they can be sued and forced to pay for court costs, radon testing, and mitigation.
When does this law take effect?
Both radon laws are now in effect in the State of Colorado. Please visit DORA’s webpage or call DORA for more information.
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HB21-1195 information below.
In July of 2021, Governor Polis signed HB21-1195 into law*, making Colorado one of only a few “licensed” states. The law is regulated by DORA: the department of regulatory agencies for the state of Colorado. These Colorado radon regulations are part of a sunset law, so it will be in place for ten years. If the citizens demand it’s kept, it will have to be voted into law again in 2031. If its deemed superfluous, it will expire in ten years.
How does the new radon law affect Coloradans?
Colorado’s new radon law is a consumer protection law. Stakeholders in Colorado, including myself, have seen an unprecedented number of consumers with “bad mitigation systems” or having professional radon tests being performed with substandard procedures and equipment. These systems do not meet industry best practices and put the homeowner in significant danger. Imagine you bought a furnace and it was installed by someone with no training or experience. That furnace could break, maim, or even kill you. That’s why HVAC professionals are licensed. We see the same need for radon professionals.
Radon is a class A carcinogen. It is estimated that nearly two Coloradans die every day as a result of prolonged radon exposure. Radon in Colorado is a serious matter and Colorado Radon professionals have fought to treat it as such. We want to see homeowners safe, and in order to do that we need to penalize contractors acting in bad faith. When a homeowner buys a radon system, it should work. Our hope is that this new Colorado radon law will curb the installation of bad systems and prevent needless disease in our fellow citizens.
What do contractors need to know?
- Take and pass an NRPP* accredited course (*National Radon Proficiency Program)
- Pass your exam, obtain your national credentials
- Register your credentials with DORA
- Follow industry code, which includes being licensed and bonded
If you take the reasonable four steps above, you’ll be in the clear. Accredited courses are inexpensive, ranging from $500-2,000, and can often be completed in a few days in person or a few weeks online.
What happens if I don’t get licensed?
Unlicensed radon mitigation and testing contractors open themselves up to criminal liability under Colorado’s radon laws and regulations. Fines and misdemeanor criminal charges can be brought against them immediately. There is no grace period for this act. Licensing starts July 1st, 2022.
How will someone know I’m not following protocol?
Unlicensed or bad work can be reported by anyone. This means anyone can report their competition.
For more information, visit DORA’s radon site, or call RMAARST 720-629-9819
As an industry stakeholder, I’m proud of the steps we’ve taken and happy the State legislature of Colorado agrees with our assessment that we need help. Homeowners still must be savvy consumers and check the credentials of any contractor performing work on their home. However, our hope is that soon enough, contractors wouldn’t dream of going to work without training. Licensed pros are proud of their work. See www.RadonRealtors.com for more information on how to choose a radon mitigation or testing contractor, and keep up with radon news and safety tips on our blog.
*This page is intended for general informational purposes only and is not intended as specific or legal advice relating to bill SB-23-206, HB 21-1195, or any other statutes, regulations, or ordinances. Please consult your legal counsel and the State of Colorado to ensure that you are operating within the parameters of the law. PDS Radon Supply is not responsible for your actions.
