Elliott Wall, Radon Test Expert

Elliott Wall is a certified radon tester, licensed by the state of Illinois in radon mitigation and testing. He is the owner and president of Elliott and Associates and holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from Illinois State University. Elliot says that radon testing is important because it is the leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers.

Where is radon generally found?
Radon gas is everywhere. It is in the air that we breathe. Every house that is touching the ground has radon gas.

Radon testing can be done professionally or by homeowners themselves with test kits. What are the benefits and drawbacks to each method?
Testing your home is very important and a home test kit is the least expensive option. However, sometimes homeowners do not follow the instructions properly, and the test is not performed correctly. Hiring a professional testing company who is knowledgeable will ensure the correct results are achieved and the proper testing procedures were followed.

If a significant amount of radon is detected in a home, what are the measures that a homeowner should take in order to rid their home of the dangerous gas?
They should have active sub slab ventilation system installed.

What are the most important pieces of equipment and supplies that radon testing companies must have?
They should have proper standard operating procedures, reliable equipment and regularly-calibrated testing devices.

What education and training is necessary to do radon testing?
A minimum of a high school diploma or GED equivalent is needed to participate in the Illinois State Radon Testing Program.

Do you have any advice or suggestions for people who want to get radon testing?
Make sure they hire a reputable testing company or, if they are performing the test themselves, to do some research or call a radon testing/mitigation company to ask for some advice.

Do you have any advice or suggestions for people who want to start a radon testing company or get a job in the field?
It is a tough time right now since radon testing goes hand in hand with real estate transactions. A marketing plan that targets homeowners (who are not selling) to get them to test their homes would be the way to go.

If you would like to learn more about radon tests, please visit The Radon Test Guide. If you would like to find a radon test, please check out our Radon Test Directory.