Radon Mitigation in Ann Arbor, MI

Radon Mitigation in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County are in EPA Radon Zone 1 — the highest predicted indoor radon category. Southeast Michigan's geology and housing stock produce consistently elevated indoor radon, with Washtenaw County homes typically testing between 4 and 8 pCi/L.

Why Ann Arbor Has Elevated Radon

The geology under Ann Arbor includes glacial moraine deposits — thick layers of permeable sand, gravel, and clay left by Pleistocene glaciation — overlying Devonian shale and sandstone bedrock. The shale, particularly the uranium-rich Antrim Shale that runs through southeast Michigan, is a continuous source of radon. The well-drained glacial till allows the gas to migrate efficiently into home foundations.

Older Ann Arbor neighborhoods like Burns Park, the Old West Side, and Kerrytown have deep basements built directly on glacial till. These foundations consistently test in the 4-10 pCi/L range. Newer subdivisions in Saline, Dexter, and Chelsea should also be tested — Washtenaw County's geology produces elevated radon across construction eras.

What Mitigation Costs in Ann Arbor

Mitigation in Ann Arbor typically runs $1,200 to $2,400. Standard scope:

• Sub-slab depressurization with one or two suction points
• PVC pipe routed through the home and vented above the roofline
• Certified radon fan (RP145 or RP260 are common choices)
• Post-installation test to confirm levels below 2 pCi/L

Cost factors:

• Foundation: Poured concrete basements ($1,200-$1,800) vs block foundations ($1,800-$2,400)
• Finished basement: Common in this market — adds $300-$500
• Sub-membrane crawl space: For homes with crawl spaces, $1,500-$2,200

Michigan Certification Requirements

Michigan does not license radon contractors, but reputable mitigators hold NRPP or NRSB certification. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) maintains a referral list of certified professionals — verify before signing a contract.

Getting Started

1. Test: Michigan EGLE offers $15 short-term test kits through county health departments. Online kits work fine too.
2. Get quotes: Ann Arbor has a strong pool of certified mitigators. Two to three bids typically vary by $300-$500.
3. Install and retest: Most jobs complete in a single day. Always retest within 30 days.

Ann Arbor Real Estate and Radon

Radon disclosure is routine in Washtenaw County real estate transactions. Buyers in Burns Park, the Old West Side, and Ann Arbor Hills increasingly request radon testing during the inspection period, and pre-listing mitigation is becoming common in higher-end markets.

Test your Ann Arbor home — Washtenaw County's Zone 1 geology makes radon a real concern.