Radon Testing Greater Philadelphia Region
Pennsylvania has some of the highest radon levels in the country — and radon is colorless, odorless, and undetectable without a test. Bob provides continuous radon monitoring using EPA-standard 48-hour testing protocol, with clear results and honest interpretation. Owner-operated, InterNACHI-certified, 20+ years of local experience. Serving Montgomery, Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester & Delaware Counties. Bundle with your home inspection for the most cost-effective approach. Call 610-348-6728.
Inspections typically scheduled within the week. Bob returns every call within 24 hours.
The Process
How does radon testing work?
Bob uses a continuous radon monitor — the most accurate method available — rather than passive charcoal canisters. Here's what the process looks like:
Monitor Placement
Bob places the continuous radon monitor in the lowest livable area of the home — typically the basement or first floor — at the start of the visit. The monitor begins recording radon levels immediately.
48-Hour Test Period
The EPA requires a minimum 48-hour closed-house test. The monitor records radon concentrations continuously throughout the test period — detecting fluctuations that a passive canister would miss.
Results & Interpretation
Bob retrieves the monitor and provides an average radon concentration in pCi/L. The EPA action level is 4.0 pCi/L. If levels are elevated, Bob explains what mitigation involves — no upsell, no referral fees.
Why It Matters Here
Why is radon a serious concern in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania consistently ranks among the highest-risk states for radon in the country. The underlying geology — particularly the Reading Prong, which runs through Montgomery, Bucks, Chester, and Berks Counties — releases radon gas from uranium-bearing rock and soil into homes above.
Radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for approximately 21,000 deaths per year. It's colorless, odorless, and tasteless — the only way to know if your home has elevated levels is to test.
The Pennsylvania DEP recommends testing all homes, regardless of construction type, age, or whether the basement is finished. Mitigation systems — if needed — are straightforward and typically cost $800–$1,500.
Common Questions
Radon testing — what buyers and homeowners ask Bob
Should I test for radon when buying a home?
Yes — radon testing is one of the most important add-ons for any home purchase in Pennsylvania. It's inexpensive relative to the cost of the home, and discovering elevated radon levels before closing gives you the ability to negotiate mitigation costs with the seller or walk away. Bob recommends bundling it with the home inspection for convenience.
Does radon testing require special preparation?
Yes — closed-house conditions are required for a minimum of 12 hours before and during the test. This means keeping windows and doors closed except for normal entry and exit, and not operating whole-house fans that exchange indoor and outdoor air. Bob will walk you through the requirements when you schedule.
My home has a sump pump — does that affect radon levels?
Sump pits can be a pathway for radon to enter the home if they're uncovered. It's a common finding in Greater Philadelphia basements. If your home has an open sump pit, Bob will note it — and a radon mitigation contractor can seal it as part of a mitigation system if levels are elevated.
Can I bundle radon testing with a home inspection?
Yes — and it's the most cost-effective approach. Bob places the monitor at the start of the home inspection, and results are ready within 48 hours. One visit, one scheduling call, one report. Call 610-348-6728 to get a bundled quote.
Full home inspection
Bundle radon testing with a complete home inspection. InterNACHI-certified, 24-hour reports from $375.
Home Inspection Services →Foundation inspection
Radon often enters through foundation cracks and sump pits. Foundation evaluation included in every inspection.
Foundation Inspection →Indoor air quality testing
PRO-LAB certified mold and air quality testing from $275. Pairs well with radon for a complete picture.
Air Quality Testing →Ready to Schedule?
How quickly can I schedule a radon test?
Call Bob directly for a 90-second quote, or fill out the form and expect a response the same day.