A refresher on the 2013 HUD radon testing and mitigation requirements in lieu of the Biden administration’s enforcement of them.
On January 31, 2013, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) enacted required radon testing in HUD-financed multifamily dwellings every time there is a new loan, sale, or federal money spent. While the Trump administration did not enforce the HUD requirements, the Biden administration’s budget priorities demonstrate that enforcement is a priority.
A HUD multifamily dwelling is characterized as being five or more units and detached, semidetached, row, walkup, or elevator-type rental or cooperative housing with complete kitchens and baths. Some notable examples of this type of dwelling include assisted living facilities, low-income housing, and childcare centers.
The requirements include (but are not limited to):
1. A Radon Report is required for most Multifamily Accelerated Processing (MAP) and Traditional Application Processing (TAP) applications. Any that are found with elevated levels (4 pCi/L or above) require radon testing and mitigation; exceptions to these requirements can be found in the full copy of the HUD Multifamily Radon Testing and Mitigation Policy.
2. The Radon Report shall include the results of any testing performed, the details of any mitigation deemed necessary, and the timing of any such mitigation.
3. All testing and mitigation must be performed under the supervision of a radon professional.
4. Radon testing must follow the protocols set by ANSI-AARST MAMF-2010, Section III.
5. Residents of all new applications for MAP and TAP programs shall be informed of the forthcoming testing, and they should be informed both prior to and after mitigation activities. For cases of new construction, incoming residents shall be informed.
6. The radon professional must assure that mitigation conforms to the respective standards from ASTM E 2121-11 and ASTM E 1465-08a.
7. For new construction and substantial rehabilitation properties, all mitigation, including follow-up testing, must be completed prior to final endorsement.
8. A certificate of completion must be submitted and appended to the Radon Report once radon testing and/or mitigation are completed.
9. Costs must be projected to the estimated construction start date.
Further explanations of the HUD requirements [including specific standards for the different radon zones for Section 223(f) refinancing projects, substantial rehabilitation and conversions, and new construction] can be found in the full copy of the HUD Multifamily Radon Testing and Mitigation Policy, which is linked here. Further explanation of what mortgage types require radon testing can be found in an FAQ about the HUD policy, which is linked here.
For assistance contact us at environmental@nv5.com or 562.495.5777.