National Real Estate Exam (PSI)Property DisclosuresMedium
A home inspector performs two short-term radon tests in a basement, recording 5.2 pCi/L and 3.6 pCi/L. Based on EPA guidance, what should the inspector recommend to the seller?
- AMitigation, because any single reading above 3.0 pCi/L triggers automatic remediation
- BNo action is needed unless both readings individually exceed 4.0 pCi/L
- CMitigation, because the average of the two readings (4.4 pCi/L) meets or exceeds the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L
- DNo action is needed since one reading is below 4.0 pCi/L
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Mitigation, because the average of the two readings (4.4 pCi/L) meets or exceeds the EPA action level of 4.0 pCi/L
EPA guidance uses the average of test results, not individual readings, to determine action. (5.2 + 3.6) ÷ 2 = 4.4 pCi/L, which is at or above the 4.0 pCi/L action level, so mitigation is recommended.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. There is no 3.0 pCi/L automatic trigger; 4.0 pCi/L is the EPA action level.
- B. The average, not both individual readings, determines the recommendation.
- D. Incorrect — EPA looks at the average, not just one reading.
Radon Action Level
The EPA recommends radon mitigation when the average indoor radon concentration is 4.0 pCi/L or higher.
- Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas
- Action level is 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter)
- Short-term tests should be averaged, not viewed individually
Memory trick: Average it, don't waver it — 4.0 is the number.