It is possible to start a business that tests for Radon.
In the United States alone, 21,000 lung cancer deaths are caused by Radon, which is found in hundreds of thousands of buildings and cannot be seen or smelled.If you want to know if the gas levels are too high in a building, you can do a test for the radioactive gas.It is possible to start a business that will provide a source of income and help others.Doing so requires a good understanding of the testing method, how to reach customers, and where to refer them if necessary.The following steps are used to start a business.
Step 1: The EPA has a website where you can research radon.
You need to know more about the practice before you can start a business.The information can be found online or in the EPA's introductory guide at www.epa.gov.Additional sources can be found at https://www.epa.gov/radon.According to the EPA, all homes and schools below the third floor are at risk for high levels of radon.Some buildings in the country are more prone to having high levels of the radioactive gas.According to the EPA guidelines, any result over 4.0 pCi/L is unsafe.
Step 2: You can learn about the types of test kits.
There are two types of testing kits, short- and long-term.Depending on the type of kit, short-term kits can test the levels of the radioactive gas in a home for between 2 and 90 days.Long-term kits stay in a home for over 90 days and offer a more accurate reading of the year-round levels of radon.The lowest lived-in area is where the kits should be placed.They should be placed away from the exterior walls, drafts, and high humidity or heat.Different types of test kits have different benefits and drawbacks.The different types can be found at http://www.nrsb.org/devices.asp.
Step 3: Check for state licensing requirements.
Some states have their own regulations for radon professionals.Those who measure or mitigate radon levels may be required to obtain and maintain a license in some states.Others may require them to register.You need to check with the appropriate regulatory body in your state to find out what its requirements are.You can find state requirements by visiting thecerti.us and selecting your state.
Step 4: Determine which certification is needed.
If you don't have to be licensed in your state, you should still seek professional certification.The National Environmental Health Association is the certifying authority for the National Radon Proficiency Program.You are more visible to potential customers if you are listed on the NRPP's website.To become certified, you need to take a qualification course and pass a certification exam.You can apply for certification at this point.There are two types of certifications: standard services and standard and analysis services.The second includes a device performance test and the ability to analyze test results yourself rather than sending your device to a lab.
Step 5: Pass certification exams by studying.
Entry level courses can be found at theaarst-nrpp.com.Some options are done entirely online, while others take place in actual classrooms.If you want to start a testing business, you should take one of the courses.The exam will be offered at the end of the class, or you can sign up for it at http://www.psiexams.com/.The courses cover everything from the science behind radon creation to choosing a test device and analyzing results.You will have 2 hours to complete 100 multiple choice questions in an exam.There are exam fees.After two years, they can be renewed with the appropriate continuing education.
Step 6: Market research is conducted.
Do you know if there is a need for a radon testing business in your area?You can check online or in the phone book for similar businesses.If you already have a customer base in another area, you can expand it.If you can, identify an underserved market for radon testing.Potential customers of a radon testing business include landlords and homeowners, as well as large business and local governments.It is possible to assess the market for residential testing by talking to a real estate agent.They can provide you with referrals if you form relationships with them.
Step 7: A business plan can be written.
You will need a plan to operate your business.How much it will cost to start is addressed.Expenses include start up costs, testing kits, transportation, marketing, and taxes.Tell me how you will find customers, what testing options you have, and what your projected income is for the first two years.Also include a list of companies that you can refer customers to if their tests show high levels of the radioactive gas.You should think about where you will work.Costs are an issue if you want to run this type of business from home.You should include a description of the structure for your business.You may want to consider other structures, like a partnership, if you're running a radon testing business.
Step 8: Where to buy radon kits?
You can find professional radon testing kits by searching online.If you want to check the reputation of a supplier, read consumer reviews and ask for references.Ask how long it takes to deliver each order and how much it costs.Make sure you get a professional radon testing kit.Customers don't have a reason to hire you.The Radon Testing Corporation of America is one of the top providers of testing equipment.The full list of approved devices can be found on the website.
Step 9: You need to raise money to start a business.
If you don't already have the money, you will have to raise it.You can take out a small business loan, get a personal loan from a friend or family member, or sell your own assets.If you choose to get a loan, seek a business loan guaranteed by the SBA, as this may be easier for the average person to qualify for.Testing kits and a method to have them analyzed will be included in your startup costs.Free lab testing is included in many kits.Depending on how many you buy to start, the cost of these will vary.You have to pay certification fees if you haven't already been certified.There are transportation expenses.There are funds for advertising.Depending on how actively you plan to advertise, this amount can vary widely.There is insurance.Errors and omissions insurance is needed by Radon measurement professionals to protect them from legal action.The North American Professional Liability Insurance Agency offers specific radon professional insurance plans.
Step 10: You can register your business in your city.
To find out what license requirements you have to meet, check with your city or county office.You will need to register a DBA name in most cases.This name is unique and must be taken by another business.You can register your DBA name by contacting the local office.
Step 11: Purchase the testing supplies.
If you think you'll need a lot of homes or businesses for your initial operations, place your order for the supplies based on that.If you need them, you can always buy more later.The supplies listed on most sites are based on how many locations they can test.The number of tests they offer to arrive at a test per measurement cost should be divided by the price of the testing supplies.You can increase your profit margin by shopping around to reduce this cost.
Step 12: It's time to market your business.
Business cards, flyers, and price lists can be printed.You can promote your business on the internet by using a website and social networks.If you have the money, purchase radio or newspaper advertisements.It is possible to engage in free marketing by networking with local contractors, inspectors, real estate agents, and builders who might use your radon testing services.The tools you need to explain the risks of radon to customers should have come from your education.Explain to them why they need to have their home tested and the risks of not doing so by using this information as part of your marketing strategy.
Step 13: A relationship can be formed with a business that deals in radon.
Some customers of your business may have unsafe levels of the radioactive gas in their home.If you're in this situation, you need to know of a business that can recommend you to your customers.The finder's fee is where you get a portion of the earnings from customers you send their way.You can search for specialists in your area on the website.The post-mitigation testing is required to make sure the efforts have been effective.