Contractor quote checklist
Ask better radon quote questions before you hire.
Use this call script to compare radon mitigation quotes by result, foundation, scope, fan, permit, warranty, and retest plan.
Phone script
I have a radon result of ___ pCi/L in ZIP _____. Before I compare prices, can you tell me what system scope your quote assumes, whether sump sealing or crawl-space work is included, what fan and warranty are included, and how the retest will be documented?
Seven checks
A strong quote names what it includes.
A cheap quote can be fine. A vague quote is the problem. Compare the scope before you compare the price.
01
Result and test type: short-term, long-term, continuous monitor, real estate test, and exact pCi/L result.
02
Foundation: basement, slab, crawl space, mixed foundation, sump pit, drain tile, or finished lower level.
03
Suction method: sub-slab, sub-membrane, drain-tile tie-in, multiple suction points, or passive-system activation.
04
Fan and warranty: fan model, expected noise, location, warranty length, and who handles a failed fan.
05
Electrical and permit scope: outlet, dedicated circuit, permit, exterior routing, roofline, and weatherproofing.
06
Post-mitigation retest: who retests, when it happens, what number is expected, and how the result is documented.
07
Final price: quoted price, final price if installed, exclusions, deposit, deadline, and payment trigger.
Red flags
Do not compare quotes that describe different jobs.
One contractor may be pricing a simple sub-slab system. Another may be including sump sealing, electrical work, and a documented retest.
Vague scope: "radon system" with no suction method, fan, routing, or sealing details.
Missing retest plan: no timeline for proving the system lowered the reading.
Foundation ignored: crawl-space or sump work treated like a standard basement job.
Unclear exclusions: electrical, permit, patching, fan warranty, or exterior routing left out.
After the call
Turn the quote into a local benchmark.
Remove names, phone numbers, exact addresses, and contractor contact details. The useful signal is ZIP, reading, foundation, scope clue, quote status, and price.