ERMI Mold Testing

$485.00

ERMI stands for Environmental Relative Moldiness Index. It’s a DNA-based mold testing method developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the early 2000s to assess mold contamination in homes and buildings.

Unlike traditional air sampling or swab tests that only capture mold at a single moment, ERMI uses dust samples to detect mold DNA from 36 specific mold species, providing a historical snapshot of mold growth over months or years.

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How ERMI Works:

1 Sample Collection
- A dust sample is collected from the home (usually via vacuuming carpets, furniture, or using a special swab on surfaces).
- The sample is sent to a certified lab (currently only Mycometrics or labs using their MSQPCR technology perform true ERMI).
2 DNA Analysis (MSQPCR)
- Mold-Specific Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction analyzes the dust for DNA from 36 mold species.
- These are divided into two groups:
  - Group 1 (26 species): Water-damage indicator molds (e.g., Stachybotrys, Chaetomium, Aspergillus versicolor) — linked to damp buildings.
  - Group 2 (10 species): Common indoor/outdoor molds (e.g., Cladosporium, Penicillium) — not necessarily from leaks.

3 ERMI Score Calculation
- The lab calculates concentrations (spore equivalents per mg of dust) for each species.
- ERMI Score = Sum of log(Group 1) – Sum of log(Group 2)
- Range: -10 to +20
  - < -1: Low mold burden (similar to clean reference homes)
  - -1 to +5: Moderate
  - > +5: High mold burden (potential water damage)
4 When to Use ERMI
✅ Yes
- Chronic health issues (fatigue, brain fog, respiratory) with suspected mold
- Buying/selling a home with water damage history
- Post-remediation verification
- Legal disputes over mold
❌ Not Ideal
- Quick air quality check (use air sampling instead)
- Identifying active leaks (use moisture meters + borescope)
- DIY mold identification (hire a certified inspector)

What Is Included In A Mold Inspection?

Home Pro Mold inspections include a visual assessment of the areas of concern and use of tools such as an on-site Air Particle test, and moisture / humidity readings to help provide site specific recommendations and estimates. Our certified inspectors will look for visual signs of mold growth, such as discoloration on walls or ceilings, musty odors, and water stains.

In most cases, mold testing is needed to properly identify the type of mold present and recommend the best course of action to remove the mold. Our inspections price includes one sample area. If additional mold testing is recommended, our inspectors will advise you of what is needed prior to taking any samples. Sampling includes 3^rd party certified laboratory analysis and results.

Air Particle Test

An air particle monitor is a device that measures the quantity and size of particles suspended in the air. It is commonly used to measure the concentration of dust, smoke, pollen, and other particles in the air. The device can also be used to monitor air quality inside your residence or commercial building.

Moisture Readings

A moisture meter is a device that is used to measure the moisture content in materials, such as wood, drywall, and concrete. Moisture meters work by using electrical resistance, capacitance, or other methods to determine the amount of moisture in the material. Moisture meters are commonly used in construction, woodworking, and home inspection. They can be used to detect moisture in walls, floors, and ceilings, to check for leaks and water damage, and to identify potential mold growth.

Humidity Readings

Relative humidity readings help determine if the moisture in the air inside a structure is conducive to mold growth or not. When Relative humidity levels are higher than the normal standard of living, it creates an atmosphere that allows mold to grow on surfaces of different materials within the structure. Occupants who experience high relative humidity levels inside a home may see mold growth occur sporadically on surfaces of walls, on clothes, or behind picture frames and furniture.

Thermal Imaging

Thermal imaging helps measure the difference in surface temperature of materials in a certain area. Using these tools correctly can help identify moisture leaks which can be verified with moisture meters.

FAQ’s

How much is a Mold Inspection?

Our inspections cost $285.00 if you are located within our service area. Mold inspections include a visual assessment of the areas of concern and use of monitoring equipment such as on-site Air Particle readings, moisture testing, and humidity readings to help provide site specific recommendations and estimates. Inspections include one mold sample area.

Does Home Pro Provide a report of the findings after an inspection?

Yes! Once inspection and/or testing is complete and we receive results back from the laboratory. A full report will be provided to you of our findings. If the findings are positive, we will also include a scope of repair / estimate to remediate the infected areas.

Is it normal to have mold inside my home?

It is normal to have some level of mold inside your home. Mold spores are microscopic organisms that are present both indoor and outdoors. These spores float along the air and often enter homes through doors, windows, air systems. In some cases, they are brought in through clothing and or pets. They can lay dormant until activated by moisture for many years. Mold colonies can occur in a short span of 48 hours if mold is exposed to water or higher than normal humidity. These colonies may produce toxins that are harmful to humans and pets, some molds often produce a strong odor. When mold levels inside the home exceed the normal levels outside the home, that is when we know there is a problem that needs to be resolved.