Radon Mitigation Services Across Lehigh County PA

When I first moved to Lehigh County, I thought radon was just another home inspection buzzword—something realtors mentioned but nobody really worried about. Then a friend’s mother, a lifelong non-smoker, was diagnosed with stage 3 lung cancer. The culprit? Decades of radon exposure in her Allentown home that had never been tested. That wake-up call changed everything I thought I knew about this invisible threat.

If you’re reading this, you’re already ahead of most homeowners in eastern Pennsylvania. Radon mitigation in Lehigh County isn’t just recommended—it’s essential. With 64% of Lehigh County homes exceeding the EPA’s 4.0 pCi/L action level and the entire region classified as EPA Zone 1 (highest risk), understanding radon testing, reduction systems, and mitigation strategies could literally save your life.

What Makes Radon So Dangerous in Lehigh County?

Here’s what most people don’t realize: radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, responsible for approximately 21,000 deaths annually according to the EPA. In Pennsylvania alone, where 40% of homes test above safe levels, radon-induced lung cancer claims hundreds of lives each year.

But what exactly is radon, and why is Lehigh County particularly vulnerable?

Understanding Radon Gas in Pennsylvania

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium in soil and rock breaks down. You can’t see it, smell it, or taste it—making it impossible to detect without proper testing. The gas seeps through foundation cracks, construction joints, and gaps around pipes, accumulating to dangerous levels inside homes.

Lehigh County’s geology makes it a radon hotspot. The area’s limestone and shale bedrock, combined with high uranium content in the soil, creates perfect conditions for elevated radon levels. Communities like Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Emmaus, Macungie, and Whitehall all face significant radon exposure risks.

According to a comprehensive radon exposure study, 64% of homes in Lehigh County and 62% in neighboring Northampton County have measured radon levels exceeding 4 pCi/L, while 16% and 14% respectively exceed 20 pCi/L—five times the EPA action level.

The Real Health Impact: Radon and Lung Cancer

Let’s talk numbers that matter. If you’re exposed to radon at 4 pCi/L over a lifetime, your lung cancer risk is approximately 7 per 1,000 people. At 8 pCi/L? That jumps to 15 per 1,000. And if you’re a smoker exposed to radon, the risk multiplies dramatically—smokers are approximately six times more likely to develop radon-induced lung cancer than non-smokers.

The American Lung Association’s 2025 report found that Pennsylvania ranks 32nd in the nation for new lung cancer cases, at 56.90 per 100,000 residents. While this represents a 14% improvement over five years, radon remains a persistent threat throughout the Lehigh Valley.

For non-smokers, radon is the number one cause of lung cancer. And here’s the sobering part: unlike smoking-related lung cancer, radon exposure often goes completely unnoticed until symptoms appear—typically in advanced stages.

Watch this helpful video from the American Lung Association explaining radon’s health impacts: Radon and Lung Health

How to Test for Radon in Your Lehigh County Home

Testing is the only way to know if you have a radon problem. Period. The good news? It’s relatively inexpensive and straightforward.

DIY Radon Test Kits vs. Professional Testing

Short-term radon test kits (2-7 days) provide quick results and cost $15-30. You can purchase them at hardware stores or order them online. These tests are ideal for initial screening or during real estate transactions when time is critical.

Long-term radon testing (90+ days) provides more accurate average readings since radon levels fluctuate seasonally. Winter months typically show the highest readings due to the “stack effect”—when your heated home draws more air (and radon) from the ground.

Professional radon testing using continuous radon monitors or E-Perm systems offers the most reliable results. Certified radon measurement specialists in the Lehigh Valley typically charge $150-300 for professional testing services, but the accuracy and detailed reporting justify the investment—especially for commercial properties or complex situations.

EPA Radon Action Levels and Measurement

The EPA action level is 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter), meaning you should take action to reduce radon if your test results come back at or above this level. However, the EPA also recommends considering radon mitigation for levels between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L.

To put this in perspective: breathing air with 4 pCi/L radon concentration is roughly equivalent to the lung cancer risk of smoking half a pack of cigarettes per day. At 20 pCi/L? That’s comparable to smoking two packs daily.

Pro tip: Test your home during winter months for the most conservative reading. If your winter levels are below 4 pCi/L, you’re likely safe year-round. If they’re elevated, you’ll catch the problem at its worst.

When to Test for Radon

  • Before buying a home in Lehigh County (should be part of your inspection contingency)
  • After major renovations that affect your foundation or HVAC system
  • Every 2-5 years as a best practice, even if previous tests were low
  • If your neighbor tests high for radon (geology often affects entire neighborhoods)
  • During pregnancy or when planning to start a family
  • Before finishing a basement where your family will spend significant time

Radon Mitigation Systems: How They Actually Work

Once you’ve confirmed elevated radon levels, the next step is mitigation. The good news? Modern radon reduction systems are highly effective, often reducing levels by 90-99%.

Sub-Slab Depressurization: The Gold Standard

Sub-slab depressurization (SSD) is the most common and effective radon mitigation technique for homes with basement or slab-on-grade foundations—which describes most Lehigh County homes.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Suction Point Creation: A certified contractor drills through your basement floor slab or foundation, creating one or more suction points beneath the concrete.
  2. PVC Pipe Installation: A 3-4 inch PVC pipe system is installed from the suction point, running vertically through your home (typically through a closet, garage, or along an exterior wall).
  3. Radon Fan Installation: A specialized radon fan is mounted in the attic or outside your home, creating negative pressure beneath the foundation. This prevents radon from entering while actively drawing it out from beneath your home.
  4. Exhaust Above Roofline: The system vents radon gas safely above your roofline, away from windows and outdoor living spaces.
  5. Monitoring System: A visual U-tube manometer shows the system is functioning properly, and most modern systems include electrical monitoring.

Watch this excellent demonstration of a properly installed radon mitigation system: How Does A Radon Mitigation System Work?

And this detailed walkthrough from Pennsylvania DEP: How a Home Radon Reduction System Works

Active Soil Depressurization vs. Passive Systems

Active soil depressurization systems use an electric fan to create continuous suction, actively drawing radon from beneath your foundation. These are required for most existing homes with elevated radon levels.

Passive radon systems rely on natural pressure differences and convection to vent radon, without a powered fan. These are sometimes installed during new construction as a preventive measure, but can be converted to active systems if testing reveals high levels later.

For Lehigh County homes—where radon levels are consistently high—passive systems alone rarely provide adequate protection. Most homes need active mitigation systems to reach safe levels below 4 pCi/L.

Other Radon Mitigation Techniques

Crawl space ventilation works for homes with accessible crawl spaces, using fans to increase air circulation and prevent radon accumulation.

Sump pump mitigation covers and vents your existing sump pit, which can be a significant radon entry point.

Block wall venting may be necessary for homes with hollow block foundation walls, where radon can travel through the blocks themselves.

Sealing cracks and gaps helps reduce radon entry but should never be considered a standalone solution. While sealing foundation cracks, sump lids, and utility penetrations improves system efficiency, it cannot eliminate radon on its own.

Radon Mitigation System Cost in Lehigh County

Let’s talk money. What should you actually expect to pay for radon mitigation in the Lehigh Valley?

Average Radon Mitigation Cost

Typical installation cost: $1,200 – $2,500 for standard residential systems in Lehigh County.

This includes:

  • Professional site evaluation and custom system design
  • All materials (PVC piping, radon fan, manometer, sealing materials)
  • Complete installation (4-6 hours of labor)
  • Post-mitigation testing to verify effectiveness
  • 5-year warranty on fan and system components

Factors affecting cost:

  • Home size and foundation type: Larger homes or complex foundations may require multiple suction points
  • Radon levels: Extremely high readings (20+ pCi/L) may need more powerful fans or additional suction points
  • System placement: Interior installations through living spaces cost more than garage/exterior installations
  • Home age and construction: Older homes with stone foundations may require additional work

Operating cost: About $10-15 per month in electricity to run the radon fan continuously. Modern energy-efficient fans use roughly the same power as a 60-watt lightbulb.

Is Radon Mitigation Worth the Investment?

Consider this: The average Lehigh County home value is around $250,000. A $1,500 radon mitigation system represents just 0.6% of your home’s value—a minimal investment for maximum protection.

More importantly, you can’t put a price on your family’s health. Avoiding lung cancer treatment (which can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars and immeasurable suffering) makes radon mitigation one of the smartest investments you’ll ever make.

Many homeowners also find their homeowner’s insurance offers discounts for radon mitigation, and some policies even cover testing costs. Additionally, if you’re buying a home, you can often negotiate for the seller to install a mitigation system as part of the purchase agreement.

Financing options: Many certified radon contractors in Lehigh County offer flexible payment plans, with monthly installments as low as $75-100/month. Senior and military discounts are also commonly available.

Finding Certified Radon Mitigation Contractors in Lehigh County

Not all radon contractors are created equal. Here’s what you need to know about finding qualified professionals in the Lehigh Valley.

Required Certifications

Look for contractors certified by:

Pennsylvania DEP (Department of Environmental Protection): All radon mitigation professionals in Pennsylvania must be certified by PA DEP. You can verify certifications on the PA DEP website.

NRPP (National Radon Proficiency Program): National certification demonstrating adherence to EPA protocols and continuing education requirements.

AARST (American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists): Advanced certification showing commitment to industry best practices.

Top Questions to Ask Radon Contractors

Before hiring a radon mitigation company in Lehigh County, ask:

  1. “How long have you been mitigating radon specifically in Lehigh County?” Local experience matters—geology varies significantly across Pennsylvania.
  2. “What’s included in your written estimate?” Get everything in writing: materials, labor, post-testing, warranty details.
  3. “What radon levels have you achieved in similar homes?” Most systems should bring levels below 2.0 pCi/L.
  4. “What’s your warranty coverage?” Look for at least 5 years on the radon fan and comprehensive system warranty.
  5. “Will you provide documentation for future home sales?” You’ll need certification and test results for real estate transactions.
  6. “Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?” Protect yourself from liability during installation.

Red Flags to Avoid

  • Contractors who guarantee specific radon levels before testing your home
  • Quotes significantly lower than competitors (likely cutting corners)
  • Pressure tactics or same-day installation without proper evaluation
  • Unwillingness to provide references or proof of certification
  • Vague warranties or refusal to provide written contracts

Reputable Radon Services in the Lehigh Valley

While I can’t officially endorse specific companies, homeowners frequently report positive experiences with established firms like:

  • Certified contractors through the Pennsylvania DEP Radon Division
  • Members of AARST-NRPP with local Lehigh Valley presence
  • Companies with 10+ years serving Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton areas

Always check reviews on Google, BBB, and Angie’s List, and get at least 3 quotes before making your decision.

Radon Mitigation for Real Estate Transactions

Buying or selling a home in Lehigh County? Radon testing and mitigation often become critical negotiation points.

Pennsylvania Radon Disclosure Laws

Pennsylvania requires sellers to provide a Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement, which includes questions about radon testing and mitigation. However, testing is not mandatory—sellers only need to disclose known information.

Smart move for sellers: Proactively test for radon and, if levels are elevated, install mitigation before listing. Homes with existing radon systems actually sell faster and often for better prices because buyers have peace of mind.

Essential for buyers: Always include radon testing in your home inspection contingency. Lehigh County’s high-risk status makes this non-negotiable.

Radon Testing During Home Inspections

Short-term testing (48-72 hours) is standard during real estate transactions, providing results within the typical inspection period.

EPA recommendations for real estate testing:

  • Closed-house conditions for at least 12 hours before and during testing
  • Windows and doors kept closed (except for normal entry/exit)
  • Testing conducted in the lowest livable level of the home
  • No testing during severe weather events that could skew results

If results come back above 4.0 pCi/L, you have several options:

  1. Request seller install mitigation system before closing
  2. Negotiate credit at closing to cover mitigation costs
  3. Request price reduction reflecting mitigation expense
  4. Walk away if seller refuses to address the issue (uncommon in Lehigh County where radon is expected)

Emergency Radon Services for Closings

Running up against a closing deadline? Many Lehigh Valley radon companies offer:

  • Same-day testing services using continuous radon monitors
  • Weekend installation availability to accommodate tight schedules
  • Rush post-mitigation testing to verify system effectiveness quickly
  • Expedited documentation for mortgage and title companies

While rush services cost more, they can save real estate transactions from falling through.

Radon Levels Throughout Lehigh County

Radon risk isn’t uniform across Lehigh County—though everywhere faces elevated risk compared to national averages.

Lehigh County Radon Map and Zones

The entire Lehigh County region falls within EPA Zone 1, indicating the highest potential for radon levels above 4 pCi/L. This includes:

Northern Lehigh County:

  • Germansville (some of the highest levels in the county)
  • Slatedale
  • New Tripoli
  • Lynnport
  • Schnecksville

Central Lehigh County:

  • Allentown (all neighborhoods)
  • Emmaus
  • Macungie
  • Trexlertown

Southern Lehigh County:

  • Coopersburg
  • Center Valley

Eastern Lehigh County:

  • Whitehall
  • Catasauqua

According to Pennsylvania DEP data, a Lehigh County home recorded one of the highest radon readings in state history at 3,715 pCi/L—nearly 1,000 times the EPA action level. While that’s an extreme outlier, it demonstrates just how serious radon problems can be in this region.

Neighboring Counties

Northampton County (Easton, Bethlehem Township, Nazareth) shows similar patterns, with 62% of homes exceeding 4 pCi/L.

Berks County to the west also falls primarily in Zone 1, with Reading and surrounding areas showing comparable radon risks.

Bucks County to the southeast has slightly lower but still concerning radon levels, particularly in the northern portions.

If you live near county borders, consider your home at risk regardless of which side of the line you’re on—geology doesn’t respect political boundaries.

Radon Levels by Zip Code

While specific zip code data varies, EPA mapping shows elevated radon percentages across all Lehigh County zip codes:

  • 18002 (Allentown): 35-50% of homes above 4 pCi/L
  • 18015 (Bethlehem): 40-55% of homes above 4 pCi/L
  • 18042 (Easton): 35-50% of homes above 4 pCi/L
  • 18049 (Emmaus): 45-60% of homes above 4 pCi/L
  • 18062 (Macungie): 40-55% of homes above 4 pCi/L
  • 18052 (Whitehall): 40-55% of homes above 4 pCi/L

These percentages represent averages—your specific home could be higher or lower. The only way to know is testing.

Maintaining Your Radon Mitigation System

Once installed, radon mitigation systems require minimal but important ongoing maintenance.

Annual Radon System Checks

Monthly: Check your U-tube manometer to ensure the system shows proper suction. The fluid levels should be noticeably different in the two columns—if they’re equal, your fan may have failed.

Annually:

  • Re-test radon levels to confirm system effectiveness (use a short-term test)
  • Listen to fan for unusual noises or vibration
  • Check exterior vent cap for blockages (bird nests, ice, debris)
  • Inspect visible piping for cracks or disconnections
  • Review electrical connections to fan

Radon Fan Replacement

Radon fans typically last 5-15 years depending on model and operating conditions. When your fan fails, you’ll notice:

  • Manometer shows equal fluid levels
  • No vibration or sound from fan location
  • Radon levels begin rising on re-tests

Replacement cost: $200-500 for the fan unit plus $100-200 for professional installation. Many warranties cover fan replacement during the first 5 years.

DIY vs. professional replacement: While mechanically inclined homeowners can replace fans, professional installation ensures proper electrical connections and verifies system performance with post-installation testing.

Radon System Evaluation and Upgrades

If you’ve had your system for 10+ years or purchased a home with an existing system, consider a professional evaluation. Older systems may lack efficiency compared to modern fans, or the original installation may not have been optimized.

System upgrades might include:

  • More energy-efficient fan motors (saving $50+ annually)
  • Additional suction points if radon levels have crept up
  • Improved sealing around sump lids and foundation penetrations
  • Aesthetic improvements to exposed piping

Radon Testing During Pregnancy and Special Populations

Certain groups face elevated risks from radon exposure and should take extra precautions.

Radon and Pregnancy

Pregnant women should prioritize radon testing and mitigation. While research specifically on pregnancy and radon is limited, we know that:

  • Developing fetuses are more vulnerable to radiation exposure
  • Pregnant women often spend more time at home, increasing exposure duration
  • Radon exposure impacts long-term health, potentially affecting children born in high-radon homes

If you’re pregnant and discover elevated radon:

  1. Test immediately using a short-term test for quick results
  2. If levels are high, consider temporarily staying elsewhere while mitigation is installed
  3. Prioritize rapid mitigation installation (most systems can be installed in 1-2 days)
  4. Re-test after mitigation to ensure levels are safe

Children and Radon Exposure

Children’s developing lungs are more susceptible to radiation damage from radon decay products. Plus, children born and raised in a home will have decades more exposure than adults who move in later.

Protect your children by:

  • Testing all living areas, especially playrooms and bedrooms in basements
  • Not allowing children to play in untested basement spaces
  • Prioritizing mitigation for levels even between 2-4 pCi/L if children live in the home

Radon and Smoking Risks

The combination of smoking and radon exposure is particularly deadly. Smokers exposed to 4 pCi/L face roughly 62 lung cancer deaths per 1,000, compared to 7 per 1,000 for non-smokers at the same exposure level.

If you or anyone in your household smokes, radon mitigation becomes even more critical. The two carcinogens have a synergistic effect, multiplying cancer risk far beyond either factor alone.

DIY Radon Mitigation: Should You Do It Yourself?

With radon mitigation systems costing $1,200-2,500, some handy homeowners consider DIY installation. But should you?

Pros of DIY Radon Mitigation

  • Cost savings: Materials cost $300-600, potentially saving $800-1,900 in labor
  • System control: You choose every component and installation detail
  • Learning experience: Gain understanding of your home’s radon system

Cons of DIY Radon Mitigation

  • No certification: DIY systems can’t be certified by PA DEP, potentially affecting resale
  • Risk of ineffective system: Improper fan sizing, suction point placement, or sealing can result in little to no radon reduction
  • Building code issues: Many municipalities require permits and inspections for radon systems
  • No warranty: If your system fails or doesn’t reduce radon adequately, you’re on your own
  • Electrical safety: Incorrect wiring of the radon fan creates fire and shock hazards
  • Time investment: Professional installation takes 4-6 hours; DIY can take a full weekend or more

The Verdict

For most Lehigh County homeowners, professional installation is worth the investment. The peace of mind from certified installation, warranty coverage, and proven results far outweigh the savings from DIY—especially given that an ineffective DIY system means continued radon exposure while you think you’re protected.

However, if you have significant construction experience, understand building codes, and are comfortable with the risks, DIY mitigation is technically possible. At minimum, consult with a certified radon professional for system design before attempting installation.

Watch this DIY installation guide if you’re considering the project: How to Install a Radon Mitigation System Yourself

But honestly? This is one area where I’d leave it to the professionals.

Common Radon Myths and Misconceptions

Let’s clear up some dangerous misunderstandings about radon in Lehigh County.

Myth #1: “My neighbor tested negative, so I’m fine.”

Reality: Radon levels vary dramatically from house to house, even in the same neighborhood. Soil composition, foundation construction, home ventilation, and dozens of other factors create unique radon profiles for each home.

Your neighbor could have 1.5 pCi/L while you have 15 pCi/L. Always test your own home.

Myth #2: “New homes don’t have radon problems.”

Reality: New construction can have radon issues too, especially in Zone 1 areas like Lehigh County. While some builders install passive radon systems in new homes, these aren’t always effective without active fans.

Always test new homes before closing or within the first year of ownership.

Myth #3: “Radon only affects basements.”

Reality: While basements typically show the highest radon concentrations, the gas can reach upper floors through the stack effect. EPA recommends testing the lowest lived-in level, but if you spend significant time on ground floors or even second floors, elevated levels there still pose health risks.

Myth #4: “Opening windows solves radon problems.”

Reality: Opening windows temporarily lowers radon levels but isn’t a practical long-term solution—especially in Pennsylvania winters! Plus, the moment you close those windows, radon accumulates again.

Proper mitigation is the only reliable solution.

Myth #5: “Radon is only dangerous if you’re a smoker.”

Reality: While smokers face dramatically higher risk, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Twenty-one thousand radon-related lung cancer deaths occur annually in the U.S., and many of these victims never touched a cigarette.

Watch this video debunking common radon myths: Radon & Lung Cancer: The Truth Behind Radon Myths & Misconceptions

Long-Term Health Effects of Radon Exposure

Understanding what radon actually does to your body helps explain why mitigation is so crucial.

How Radon Causes Lung Cancer

When you breathe radon gas, radioactive decay products attach to lung tissue. These particles emit alpha radiation—the most damaging type at close range—directly into sensitive lung cells.

Over months and years, this radiation damages cellular DNA, potentially triggering mutations that lead to cancer. The latency period from exposure to cancer diagnosis can be 15-25 years, meaning damage occurring today won’t show symptoms until decades later.

The insidious part? You feel nothing during exposure. Radon doesn’t cause immediate symptoms, coughing, or irritation. By the time lung cancer symptoms appear—persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, bloody sputum—the disease is often advanced.

Radon Exposure Symptoms (Or Lack Thereof)

This bears repeating: radon exposure causes no immediate symptoms. You cannot feel it, taste it, smell it, or otherwise detect it without testing equipment.

This is why radon is so dangerous—families live in high-radon homes for decades without any indication of the invisible threat slowly damaging their lungs.

Radon Mitigation Health Benefits

The flip side? Radon mitigation provides immediate protection. The moment your mitigation system activates, radon concentrations begin dropping. Within 24 hours, your home reaches its new, lower radon level.

Every day of reduced exposure lowers your cumulative lifetime risk. Installing mitigation today means:

  • Reduced cancer risk for everyone in your household
  • Improved air quality (radon systems also reduce moisture and other soil gases)
  • Peace of mind that your home is protecting your family, not harming them
  • Increased home value and easier resale when you eventually sell

Frequently Asked Questions About Radon in Lehigh County

How common is radon in Lehigh County?

Extremely common. Studies show 64% of Lehigh County homes test above the EPA action level of 4 pCi/L, with 16% exceeding 20 pCi/L. Every home should be tested regardless of age or location within the county.

What is the average radon level in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania has one of the most serious radon problems in the United States, with approximately 40% of homes testing above 4 pCi/L. Some areas of Lehigh County and surrounding eastern Pennsylvania counties show even higher percentages.

Is radon worse in winter or summer?

Radon levels are typically highest in winter due to the stack effect—warm air rising in your heated home creates negative pressure that draws more radon from the ground. Closed windows and doors also trap radon inside. Summer levels tend to be 30-50% lower due to increased ventilation and reduced pressure differentials.

How long does radon mitigation installation take?

Most residential radon mitigation systems in Lehigh County are installed in 4-6 hours. Complex installations or homes requiring multiple suction points may take a full day. Your home is fully livable during installation, with only minor disruption.

Do radon levels go down after mitigation?

Yes, dramatically. Properly installed sub-slab depressurization systems typically reduce radon levels by 90-99%. Most homes in Lehigh County with initial readings of 10-15 pCi/L end up below 2 pCi/L after mitigation. Systems should achieve levels below the EPA action level of 4 pCi/L—if yours doesn’t, the contractor should make adjustments at no additional cost.

Can radon mitigation increase electric bills significantly?

Minimally. Modern radon fans consume about 60-90 watts—similar to a standard lightbulb. Expect $10-15 per month in additional electricity costs, or roughly $120-180 annually. Newer energy-efficient fans can reduce this even further.

Does homeowners insurance cover radon mitigation?

Typically no. Most homeowners insurance policies don’t cover radon testing or mitigation, considering it a preventive measure rather than damage repair. However, some insurers offer discounts for homes with mitigation systems, and certain policies may cover testing as part of broader environmental assessments.

How often should I retest my home for radon?

EPA recommendations:

  • Every 2 years as a best practice
  • After major renovations affecting your foundation or heating/cooling system
  • After natural disasters (flooding, earthquakes) that could affect foundation integrity
  • If your mitigation system shows signs of failure (manometer indicates no suction)

Annual testing is recommended if you have a mitigation system to ensure ongoing effectiveness.

What happens if I sell my house with high radon and no mitigation?

Pennsylvania law requires disclosure of known radon testing results. If you’ve tested and found high radon without installing mitigation:

  • Buyers will likely discover it during inspection
  • You may need to reduce sale price to cover mitigation costs
  • Buyers may walk away if you refuse to address the issue
  • Your home will take longer to sell compared to similar homes with mitigation systems

Proactively installing mitigation before listing often results in faster sales and better prices.

Are there programs to help pay for radon mitigation?

Limited financial assistance programs exist:

  • USDA Rural Development may include radon mitigation in home repair loans
  • Some local health departments occasionally offer grants or subsidies for low-income homeowners
  • Weatherization Assistance Programs sometimes include radon mitigation as part of home improvements
  • FHA 203(k) loans can include radon mitigation costs in purchase mortgages

Check with the Pennsylvania DEP Radon Division for current assistance programs in Lehigh County.

Take Action Today: Protecting Your Lehigh County Home

Here’s the reality: every single day you delay radon testing and mitigation is another day of potential exposure for your family. With 64% of Lehigh County homes exceeding safe radon levels, the odds aren’t in your favor.

But here’s the good news—you now have all the information you need to take control.

Your Next Steps

Step 1: Test your home (this week)

  • Purchase a short-term radon test kit ($15-30) from a hardware store or online
  • Or schedule professional testing with a certified radon measurement specialist
  • Place the test in your lowest lived-in level per EPA guidelines
  • Wait for results (2-7 days for DIY kits, 24-48 hours for professional tests)

Step 2: Evaluate your results

  • Below 2 pCi/L: Low risk, but retest every 2-5 years
  • 2-4 pCi/L: Consider mitigation, especially if children, pregnant women, or smokers live in the home
  • Above 4 pCi/L: Take action—EPA action level requires mitigation
  • Above 10 pCi/L: Urgent priority for mitigation

Step 3: Get quotes from certified contractors

  • Contact at least 3 PA DEP-certified radon mitigation companies
  • Ask the key questions outlined in this guide
  • Compare warranties, timelines, and included services (not just prices)
  • Check references and online reviews

Step 4: Install your system

  • Most installations complete in one day
  • Minimal disruption to your daily routine
  • Immediate radon reduction begins

Step 5: Verify and maintain

  • Post-mitigation testing confirms system effectiveness (usually included)
  • Check manometer monthly to ensure system function
  • Re-test annually to verify ongoing protection
  • Schedule professional evaluation every 5 years

Finding Certified Radon Professionals in Lehigh County

Start your search with these verified resources:

The Bottom Line on Radon Mitigation in Lehigh County

Living in Lehigh County means accepting that radon is likely in your home. The geology, the uranium-rich soil, the limestone bedrock—they all conspire to create one of the highest-risk regions in the entire United States.

But knowledge is power. And with that power comes responsibility—to yourself, your family, and anyone who will live in your home after you.

Radon mitigation isn’t expensive insurance against an unlikely threat. It’s essential protection against a highly probable danger. For roughly $1,500 and the cost of a lightbulb’s worth of electricity each month, you eliminate the second-leading cause of lung cancer from your home.

Think about it: would you skip smoke detectors because fires are rare? Would you skip seatbelts because crashes are unlikely? Of course not.

Radon mitigation is the same kind of obvious protection—once you understand the risk.

I can’t test your home for you. I can’t call contractors on your behalf. I can’t install a mitigation system in your basement.

But I can tell you this: ten years from now, you’ll be glad you took action today.

Don’t wait. Test. Mitigate. Breathe easier.


Additional Resources

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Radon Division
Website: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dep/programs-and-services/radiation-protection/radon-division

EPA Radon Information
Website: https://www.epa.gov/radon

American Lung Association – Radon
Website: https://www.lung.org/clean-air/at-home/indoor-air-pollutants/radon

National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP)
Website: https://www.nrpp.info

Lehigh Valley News – Radon Coverage
Recent article: What Lehigh Valley residents need to know about radon



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