Common radon questions from Murfreesboro and Rutherford County homeowners, with sources at the end.
What is radon, in plain terms?
A naturally occurring radioactive gas from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It has no smell or color and can build up indoors. The EPA links it to about 21,000 U.S. lung cancer deaths a year.
Is Rutherford County a radon hot spot?
It's EPA Zone 1, the highest-potential category, and TDEC reports that about 1 in 4 Tennessee homes using the state's free kit test above 4 pCi/L.
When should I fix my radon level?
The EPA's action level is 4 pCi/L. It also suggests considering a fix between 2 and 4 pCi/L.
How do I get the free Tennessee test kit?
Request it from the Tennessee Radon Program (TDEC) online or by calling its hotline. It's one kit per household, and lab analysis is included.
Should I test in the crawl space?
No. Place the test in the lowest lived-in level, such as a main-floor bedroom or living room, at breathing height.
How much does radon mitigation cost?
It depends on the house. Angi's 2026 national data puts typical active systems at about $805 to $1,326, averaging about $1,043. Crawl spaces with large membranes and complex homes cost more. Local pros quote each home.
Is crawl space encapsulation the same as radon mitigation?
No. Encapsulation targets moisture. Radon mitigation adds a fan drawing from under the sealed liner. They can be combined, but sealing a crawl space without suction can sometimes raise radon.
How long does a system take to install?
Many systems are installed in one day. Large crawl spaces or multiple suction points can take longer.
How do I know it's working?
A manometer on the pipe shows suction, and a post-mitigation test at least 24 hours after start-up and within 30 days confirms the level. Retest every couple of years.
Talk it through with a certified pro. Free referral for Murfreesboro and Rutherford County homes.
(629) 201-4576My new home has a radon pipe. Am I covered?
Maybe. A passive pipe can lower radon, but you need a test to know. If it's high, a fan can usually be added to the existing pipe.
Who pays when a home sale test is high?
It's negotiated. Sellers commonly install a system or offer a credit. Check your contract and talk with your agent.
Does homeowners insurance cover radon?
Typically not. Standard policies generally don't cover radon testing or mitigation. Check yours.
Do Tennessee radon contractors need a license?
No. Tennessee doesn't license radon mitigation contractors. Ask for NRPP or NRSB certification.
Are you the company that installs systems?
No. Murfreesboro Radon Mitigation is a free referral service. Independent certified professionals do the testing and installation.
Where this information comes from
- EPA: Radon Frequently Asked Questions
- EPA: Health Risk of Radon
- EPA Map of Radon Zones, county data (Rutherford County, TN: Zone 1)
- Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation: Tennessee Radon Program
- Tennessee Radon Program free test kit request (TDEC)
- Angi: How Much Does a Radon Mitigation System Cost? (2026 national data)