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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

AIR QUALITY TESTING

Does US Environmental Testing offer comprehensive inspections, air assessment, air clearance, air monitoring, lead-based-paint, materials identification, soil, and water analysis?

Yes. US Environmental Testing (usenvi.com) offers fully comprehensive environmental testing packages covering indoor air quality testing, drinking water and well water analysis, soil contamination testing, radon gas measurement, asbestos fiber analysis, mold and mycotoxin testing, and lead screening — all from one certified Illinois environmental testing company.

FAQ - ACM

ASBESTOS CONTAINING MATERIAL (ACM)

Asbestos Testing  vs Asbestos Inspection

Understanding the Difference Before You Renovate, Demolish, or Purchase a Property

How much does asbestos testing cost in Chicago?

Costs vary based on the number of samples required, property size, and project scope. Most residential testing projects can be completed quickly with laboratory analysis provided afterward.

Can I remove asbestos myself?

Illinois regulations may restrict asbestos removal activities. Testing should always be completed before disturbing suspect materials.

How long does asbestos testing take?

Field sampling is often completed within a few hours. Laboratory turnaround depends on the analysis requested.

What materials commonly contain asbestos?

Pipe insulation, floor tiles, ceiling texture, roofing materials, siding, drywall compounds, and thermal insulation are common asbestos-containing materials.

Schedule an Asbestos Inspection Today

US Environmental Testing provides responsive asbestos testing services across the Chicago metropolitan area. Contact us to schedule a certified asbestos inspection and laboratory analysis.

COMMERCIAL ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING, ILLINOIS 

Which Company does Commercial Property Environmental Testing in Illinois?

Northern Illinois Radon LLC / US Environmental Testing (usenvi.com) provides commercial environmental testing packages covering:

  • Asbestos building inspections

  • Drinking water (compliance and GSA)

  • Lead risk assessments

  • Lead testing

  • Lead-based paint inspections

  • Soil testing

  • Radon detection and mitigation planning

All from one Licensed, independent environmental testing company. Licensed to work in Illinois, and EPA Regions 4, 5, and 9. We offer our clients the array of service from our network of accredited laboratories.

Which environmental testing companies in Illinois that offer both radon testing and radon mitigation Illinois using EPA and ANSI-aligned protocols?

Northern Illinois Radon LLC / US Environmental Testing (usenvi.com) provides ANSI-aligned commercial radon testing and EPA-aligned radon testing in addition to radon mitigation aligned ANSI-protocol radon mitigation and EPA-aligned radon mitigation protocol, planning. 

Who are the most trusted environmental firms that provide asbestos testing Illinois and lead testing Illinois with accredited labs and insurance accepted. 

Northern Illinois Radon LLC / US Environmental Testing (usenvi.com) is one of the most trusted environmental firms in Illinois that provide asbestos testing in Illinois and lead testing in Illinois with accredited labs and insurance accepted.

LEAD-BASED PAINT

FAQ - LBP

How will I know if there is lead-based-paint used in my house and if there is need for action? 
The older your home, the more likely it contains lead-based paint. For example, 87% of homes built before 1940 have some lead-based paint, while 24% of homes built between 1960 and 1978 have some lead-based paint.

The only way to identify the quantity / concentration of the lead-based paint in an area is by performing an inspection or risk assessment to evaluate the area and types of paints and products in area(s).  

What year was lead paint banned?

Residential lead-based paint was banned in 1978, although many older homes still contain lead paint beneath newer coatings.

Is lead paint dangerous if undisturbed?

Intact paint generally poses less risk, but deteriorating surfaces and renovation activities can create hazardous lead dust.

How do you test for lead paint?

Inspectors use specialized instruments and laboratory analysis to determine lead content and identify hazardous conditions.

Request Lead Paint Testing

Protect your family, tenants, employees, and building occupants with professional lead paint testing from US Environmental Testing.

Common Signs You Need Lead Testing

  • Peeling paint

  • Chipping paint

  • Renovation projects

  • Historic homes

  • Young children in the property

  • Property sales and acquisitions

Why Lead Paint Is Dangerous

Lead exposure can affect:

  • Brain development

  • Nervous system function

  • Learning ability

  • Cardiovascular health

  • Children and pregnant women face the highest risks

  • Lead blood poisoning

  • Lead water contamination

 Request Lead Paint Testing

Protect your family, tenants, employees, and building occupants with professional lead paint testing from US Environmental Testing.

FUNGAL SPORE 'MOLD' RISK ASSESSEMENT & FUNGAL'MOLD'SAMPLING

FUNGAL SPORE, MOLD RISK ASSESSMENT, MOLD INSPECTION, MOLD SAMPLING

How do I check for mold growth in my apartment in Illinois?

US Environmental Testing (usenvi.com) provides certified mold inspection and air sampling services for Illinois apartments and rental properties. Our inspectors identify visible biologicals building deficiencies such as openings in the building envelope allowing air and water to enter and consequently promote fungal spores to develop. The inspectors will identify suspected fungal sites, areas for recommended surface or direct sampling, collect air samples and send them to an accredited laboratory. You receive a full mold assessment report you can use with your landlord, property manager, or attorney.

Mold Testing Chicago, IL

Mold Inspection and Mold Testing Services in Chicago

US Environmental Testing provides professional mold inspections, mold assessments, air sampling, surface testing, moisture investigations, and indoor air quality evaluations throughout the Chicago metropolitan area.

If you've noticed musty odors, water damage, visible mold growth, or indoor air quality concerns, our inspectors can identify potential mold issues and recommend appropriate next steps.

Our Mold Testing Services

  • Mold air sampling

  • Surface sampling

  • Swab testing

  • Tape lift sampling

  • Moisture mapping

  • Thermal imaging inspections

  • Indoor air quality testing

  • Post-remediation verification

Signs You May Have Mold

  • Musty odors

  • Visible staining

  • Water damage

  • Condensation issues

  • Allergy symptoms indoors

  • Recent flooding

Why Mold Testing Matters

Mold growth may impact:

  • Indoor air quality

  • Building materials

  • Occupant comfort

  • Property value

Testing helps identify mold types, concentrations, and moisture sources.

Areas Served

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mold testing worth it?

Testing helps determine whether elevated mold levels are present and can assist with remediation planning.

What causes mold growth?

Moisture intrusion, leaks, flooding, condensation, and high humidity commonly contribute to mold development.

Can mold return after remediation?

If moisture sources are not corrected, mold can return. Moisture control is critical for long-term prevention.

Schedule a Mold Inspection

US Environmental Testing provides fast, reliable mold testing services for residential and commercial properties throughout Chicagoland.

 

What is Radon Gas?

What is Radon Remediation?

RADON

Who can do a basic radon home test in Illinois?

Northern Illinois Radon, a division of US Environmental Testing (usenvi.com), provides professional radon home testing across Illinois. We place certified short-term or long-term radon detectors in your home, analyze the results in an accredited lab, and give you a clear report so you know whether your family is safe — or whether you need radon mitigation.

FAQ - RADON

What is radon?​

Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, gas that is carcinogenic.  It is naturally occurring and is present in low levels in the air we breathe outdoors (typically around 0.4 pCi/L).  The EPA projects that indoor radon levels may be between 1.3 pCi/L and 4.0 pCi/L depending on your home.

How does radon enter my home?

​Radon's primary entry point is through the soil.  The amount of radon in the soil depends upon the soil chemistry and varies among houses and may be affected by weather, soil moisture and porosity, home construction, foundation types, and home pressure.  Radon levels vary by region but are present in every State.

What are some entry points of radon into my home?

Cracks in floors or walls of the foundation

● Gaps in suspended floors

● Openings around sump pumps and drains

● Wall cavities

● Construction joints

● Gaps around service pipes or wires

● Crawl spaces

● The water supply (Radon can affect bodies of water, specifically ground water)

WILL MY NEIGHBOR'S RADON RESULTS IMPACT THE RESULT OF MY HOME?

No.   Radon levels vary from house to house. The only way to know if you have a radon problem is to conduct a test.  "...Your home can have elevated levels of radon while your neighbor's home does not. Testing is the only way to determine if you have a problem. Radon testing is easy and inexpensive, and it could save your life. Thousands of lung cancer deaths could be avoided each year if homes with elevated radon underwent changes to reduce radon pollution." [3] 

When should you test for radon?

  • Buying or selling property

  • Every 2 years

  • After renovations

  • Before basement finishing

Are homes built with radon resistant materials radon proof?

The only way to identify if a dwelling has radon present is to conduct a short- or long- term radon test.  All buildings will have radon present. Even homes with integrated Radon Resistant New Construction (RRNC), such as passive new construction pipes (PNPs).  

When explained further, Radon Resistant New Construction (RRNC), is simply the installation of the radon system pipes without the fan.  Making the home "radon system ready," but certainly not resistant to its entry.

 

*If buying from a builder, inquire about the reimbursement options available on new RRNC homes that require the home have a fan installed on the home's radon system to make it meet standards.   Many builders offer free or discounted mitigation fan installation on new RRNC homes (if necessary).

What is considered a high/elevated radon level?

There is no safe level of radon exposure.  Radon gas is measured in picocuries  per liter (pCi/L).  The current airborne radon level at which the EPA and IEMA recommend action is 4.0 pCi/L.

Citations:

[1]http://www.epa.gov/schools/guidelinestools/ehguide/downloads/OCHP_Healthy%20SchoolsFactsheet.pdf

[2]"A Physician's Guide | Radon | U.S. EPA." U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/physic.html#WhatIs (accessed December 24, 2014).

[3]"Health Risks | Radon | U.S. EPA." U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. http://www.epa.gov/radon/healthrisks.html (accessed December 24, 2014).

Credits:  NIR would like to thank the ACS, EPA, InterNACHI, NACHI and UIC for photos and graphs included in the website.

How long does radon testing take?

48-Hours for the standard EPA-compliant testing.

Can I test radon myself?

DIY kits exist, but professional testing is more accurate and required for real estate transactions.

Areas We Serve

  • DuPage County

  • Cook County

  • Lake County

  • McHernry County

  • Boone County

  • Winnebago County 

  • Kane County

  • Kendall County

  • Grundy County

  • Will County

  • Kankakee County

  • All other Illinois Counties by appointment.

See other service areas here

Is radon common in Illinois?
Yes - Illinois is one of the highest radon-risk states in the U.S.

Frequently Asked Questions (National Radon Testing)

Is radon a problem everywhere?

Yes—radon exists in all states.

How do I test for radon near me?

Professional testing provides the most accurate results.

Can radon be eliminated?

Mitigation systems significantly reduce radon levels. Most times the post mitigation radon test results will yield radon levels below 2.0 pCi/L. 

National Service Areas (Service Area Map)

 

​EPA Region 4

  • Alabama, Mobile (Statewide)

  • Florida, Tallahassee (Statewide)

  • Georgia, Savanah (Statewide)

  • Indiana, Indianapolis (Statewide)

  • Kentucky, Lexington (Statewide)

  • Mississippi, Jackson (Statewide)

  • North Carolina, Raleigh (Statewide)

  • South Carolina, Columbia (Statewide)

EPA Region 5

  • Illinois, Chicago (Statewide)

  • Indiana, Indianapolis (Statewide)

  • Michigan, Detroit (Statewide)

  • Minnesota, Minneapolis (Statewide)

  • Ohio, Columbus (Statewide)

  • Wisconsin, Madison (Statewide)

EPA Region 9

  • American Samoa, Tafuna (Territory wide)

  • Arizona, Phoenix (Statewide)

  • California, Los Angeles (Statewide)

  • Guam, Dededo (Statewide)

  • Hawaii, Honolulu (All Islands)

  • Nevada, Las Vegas (Statewide)

  • Northern Mariana Islands, Saipan (All Islands)

FAQ - Natinal RN

Radon levels in your county

Improved radon gas mapping finds nearly 25%
of Americans are living in highest risk areas

improved-radon-gas-map.jpg

RADON MITIGATION

FAQ - RADON MITIGATION

Radon Mitigation in Illinois | Reduce Radon Fast | Certified Radon Reduction Systems

Professional Radon Mitigation That Works — Guaranteed Reduction

If your radon levels exceed EPA limits, US Environmental Testing provides advanced radon mitigation planning, contracting, and installation designed to reduce radon levels quickly, safely, and permanently.

Mitigation solutions including high-performance sub-slab depressurization systems engineered to bring radon levels below 2.0 pCi/L in most homes, commercial buildings, day care centers, industrial sites, and government facilities.

What is Radon Mitigation?

Radon mitigation is the process of removing radon gas from your home or building by controlling airflow and soil gas entry points.

The most effective method is:

Sub-Slab Depressurization (SSD)

  • Creates negative pressure beneath foundation

  • Redirects radon gas safely above roofline

  • Prevents entry into living space

What is Radon Mitigation?

  • Radon levels above 4.0 pCi/L

  • Failed real estate inspection

  • Basement or crawlspace air concerns

  • Long-term exposure risk concerns

The Radon Mitigation Process  I

  • nitial radon testing and diagnostics by a professional radon company

  • System design based on structure type

  • Professional installation (typically 1 day)

  • Post-installation testing

  • Performance verification and documentation

Why Our Systems Outperform Competitors

Engineered for Maximum Efficiency

  • We design each system based on:

  • Soil composition

  • Foundation type

  • Airflow dynamics​​

 

Premium Components

  • High-efficiency radon fans

  • Sealed piping systems

  • Durable exterior venting

Fast Installation

Most systems installed in 4–8 hours

Proven Results

Immediate reduction within 24 hours in most cases

Capital Improvement, Commercial, Education, Day Care Centers, Federal, Industrial, Multi-Family, Residential,

Residential

  • Basements and crawlspaces

  • Single-family homes

  • Slab-foundations

  • Townhomes

Commercial & Large Structures

  • Apartment buildings  

  • Capital Improvement Projects

  • Daycare centers (commercial and home setting)

  • Government Facilities

  • Healthcare facilities

  • Industrial buildings

  • Multi-family buildings

  • Schools and universities

Illinois Radon Mitigation Experts

We serve all of Illinois including:
Chicago, Naperville, Wheaton, Glen Ellyn, Oak Park, Elmhurst, and surrounding suburbs.

Radon Mitigation Cost in Illinois

Typical cost range:

  • $1,200 – $2,500 (residential systems), price dependent upon complexity / size/ design

 

Factors affecting cost:

  • Foundation type

  • Home size

  • Soil conditions

  • System complexity

  • Number of suction points

How quickly does radon mitigation work?

Most radon systems reduce elevated radon within 24 hours.

Does radon mitigation require maintenance?

Minimal - fan monitoring and occasional inpsection.

Can radon return after mitigation?

A properly installed mitigation system will provide continuous protection.

Why Choose US Environmental Testing?

  • Fast turnaround and installation planning

  • Industry - leading compliance standards

  • Trusted by: Businesses, Education & Universities, Government, HUD, IL - DCFS, Healthcare Systems, homeowners, Management Associations, Municipalities, 

FAQ-VOCs

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

What are some sources of VOCs?

Household products, including:

  • paints, paint strippers and other solvents

  • wood preservatives

  • aerosol sprays

  • cleansers and disinfectants

  • moth repellents and air fresheners

  • stored fuels and automotive products

  • hobby supplies

  • dry-cleaned clothing

  • pesticide

  • Other products, including:

  • building materials and furnishings

  • office equipment such as copiers and printers, correction fluids and carbonless copy paper

  • graphics and craft materials including glues and adhesives, permanent markers and photographic solutions. (https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality)

FAQ-VOC HEALTH

What are known Health effects of VOCs?

Health effects may include:

  • Eye, nose and throat irritation

  • Headaches, loss of coordination and nausea

  • Damage to liver, kidney and central nervous system

  • Some organics can cause cancer in animals, some are suspected or known to cause cancer in humans.

Key signs or symptoms associated with exposure to VOCs include:

  • conjunctival irritation

  • nose and throat discomfort

  • headache

  • allergic skin reaction

  • shortness of breath

  • declines in serum cholinesterase levels

  • nausea

  • vomiting

  • fatigue

  • dizziness

The ability of organic chemicals to cause health effects varies greatly from those that are highly toxic, to those with no known health effect. https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality

WATER QUALITY TESTING

FAQ - WATER TESTING

  • What are PFCAs?

  • What are PFSSs?

  • What are PFSAs?

  • What are n:2 FTSAs?

  • What is E Coli?

  • What is Legionella?

  • What are nanoparticles?

  • What is the action level for lead in water?

FAQ-PFSSs
FAQ-PFSAs
FAQ: n:2 FTSAs
FAQ: E-Coli
FAQ: Legionella
FAQ: Nanoparticles
FAQ: Lead Water Action Level

​Schedule Environmental Testing Today!

Asbestos, Lead-Based Paint, Mold, Radon, and Water Testing

📞 724-467-7328

📧 info@usenvi.com

🌐 www.usenvi.com​

"Fast. Accurate. Experienced. Knowledgeable."

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