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Adopt a RRNC Code or Standard

Tools You Can Use

Building Codes: A Primer

List of State Building Code Associations

Listing of State and/or Local Jurisdictions that have RRNC Codes

Builder/Contractor Resources

Contact Your State Radon Coordinator, Find More State-by-State Resources

Find RRNC Training

All homes should be tested for radon.  Learn about the health risks associated with radon.

Your municipality, county, or state can choose to adopt a code (or standard) that covers radon-resistant new construction, authored by one of several organizations. For details on national radon standards, or standards that relate to new homes in your area, visit the Web sites of the three organizations listed below.

1. ASTM International: www.astm.org Exit Disclaimer(replaces EPA's previous Model Building Techniques and Standards)
For the free “scope” section of ASTM’s “ACTIVE STANDARD”: E1465-08 Standard Practice for Radon Control Options for the Design and Construction of New Low-Rise Residential Buildings, go to: Web site Exit Disclaimer

While following any of the three primary codes that include radon resistant construction is sufficient to qualify for the Directory of Radon Builders, EPA believes that ASTM E1465-08 has some advantages over the other codes. Using ASTM E1465-08:

2. The International Code Council (ICC): www.iccsafe.org/ Exit Disclaimer
Here you can find the International Residential Code (IRC), which includes Appendix F−Radon Control Methods. The code can also be purchased - Web site Exit Disclaimer
3. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): www.nfpa.org Exit Disclaimer
The NFPA codes and standards are available in read-only format on line; use this link to view NFPA 5000 for free - Web site Exit Disclaimer

Code Adoption: The Process and Examples of Successful Code Adoptions

Step 1 - Who initiates the code adoption process?

You will need Adobe Reader to view some of the files on this page. See EPA's PDF page to learn more.

A member of the local building department or an elected member of the town council proposes adopting the updated or new version of a building code that governs new homes, including radon-resistant new construction.

or

A concerned citizen launches the process by bringing the need for a code that mandates radon-resistant new construction to the attention of elected or appointed officials in the jurisdiction.

Step 2 - Community Education and Buy-in from Stakeholders

The codes committee, composed of government officials, decides on a process for reviewing new or revised building codes. This may involve meeting with and organizing workshops for builders and other interested parties. Including stakeholders in the education and discussion process early on is vital to the successful adoption of a new code. These parties include:

  1. Local code officials from the building department
  2. Local builders
  3. The mayor
  4. Government representatives
  5. Representatives from the code organization (ICC, ASTM, or NFPA)
  6. Local health officials
  7. Prospective new home buyers
  8. Home inspectors

Step 3 - Adoption by Local Jurisdiction

The codes committee, or the council member supporting the new or revised code, recommends adoption to the town council. The codes, including the sections on radon-resistant new construction, are discussed in a public meeting before the council makes a final decision (votes).

Examples of Successful RRNC Code Adoptions include:

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