The Truth About Passive Radon Systems in New Construction
Steve Vacha | Owner & Inspector | Home Standards Inspection Services
During a recent home inspection, I came across a rough-in pipe installed into a sump pit, as per today’s building codes. This is often referred to as a “passive radon system,” but it’s important to clarify what that really means.
In a full passive radon mitigation system, the installation is much more complex than just running a pipe. It usually involves placing layers of sand or gravel underneath the foundation, followed by a plastic membrane before the concrete is poured. However, most builders skip these additional steps, which means the rough-in pipe alone doesn’t provide the full benefits of a passive radon system.
This misunderstanding can be concerning for new homeowners. Some might think that because there’s a rough-in pipe in place, radon testing isn’t necessary—but that’s not the case. The scientific community is increasingly aware of the health risks posed by radon, and testing remains crucial even if the house has this type of setup.
The good news is that having a rough-in pipe already installed makes it much easier—and less expensive—to add an active radon mitigation system if testing reveals elevated radon levels. That’s the real value of these pipes, and it’s something every homeowner should be aware of when buying or building a new home.
