***2023 LEGISLATIVE UPDATE. PLEASE READ AND SUPPORT OUR EFFORTS FOR A RADON DISCLOUSRE LAW–READ MORE HERE: SB23-206 Radon Notification Fact Sheet***
***UPDATE*** Information on Rulemaking with DORA here. Webinar with State of Colorado May 2nd, 2022
CLICK HERE for DORA informational flyer
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 not intended to serve as legal advice or a comprehensive list of ramifications of bill HB 21-1195. Consult with your legal counsel and the State of Colorado to ensure that you are operating within the parameters of the law.
