New construction & passive systems in York, PA

Activating a builder's passive rough-in by adding a fan and sealing, and radon-resistant new construction (RRNC) piping for houses being built.

Passive systems and new construction in York County

Many newer houses in the York Township and Dallastown developments were built with a passive rough-in: a capped pipe running from under the slab up through the house, with no fan. A passive system lowers radon a little; in a Zone 1 county it usually needs the fan. Activating one costs about $500 to $1,000 for the fan, manometer and sealing, more if the rough-in has no suction pit and one has to be added.

The contractors here also do radon-resistant new construction, which means the sub-slab piping, sealing and vent stack are designed in while the house is being built, so a fan can be added later for the cost of an activation instead of a full retrofit.

The DIY guide covers what you may do yourself in Pennsylvania and how to verify a contractor's certification.