What Is The ERMI Mold Test?

If you’re dealing with mold or have ever dealt with mold, you’ve probably asked yourself, “What is the ERMI mold test, and how the heck do I use it?” Unfortunately, with all of the misinformation and lack of awareness out there regarding mold, this widely popular test is often misused and misunderstood.
What is the ERMI mold test?
The EPA developed this research tool to help estimate the level of mold contamination inside of a building. It’s important to note that while this form of testing is a huge piece of mold remediation pop culture and is supported by many experts and medical professionals, such as Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker, the EPA does not recommend its use other than as a research tool. Still, it can add some benefit when testing for mold in a home if it’s used correctly.
But, getting back to what is the ERMI mold test. This form of testing utilizes mold-specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction (MSQPCR) technology to identify over 36 different species of mold. To put it simply, ERMI allows testing analysts to inspect the DNA of any mold particles found in dust samples collected from inside of a building. Then they compare these DNA sequences to the established ERMI scale to determine the amount of mold present and identify some of the species. With over 100,000 species of mold identified so far, it’s a tall order to fill, but it can still be helpful.
The key thing to remember, though, is that ERMI testing is just a tool in the tool belt; it’s supposed to be used in conjunction with other testing tools, not as the single method to determine mold levels within a home. Also, like any tool, there’s a right way and a wrong way to go about utilizing an ERMI test, as explained in the video.
Breaking It Down
That’s why this video is here to clear up the confusion. Not only will it more thoroughly answer, “What is the ERMI mold test?” but it will also explain:
-What MSQPCR technology (the technology behind ERMI) is used for
-How to utilize ERMI testing properly for mold inspections and mold remediation projects
-How mold remediation impacts ERMI
-How to utilize the data to ensure you’re building a healthy home
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[@mcsb1111]

hands down the best explanation of ermi I've seen yet. Kudos to you.

[@michaelrubino6509]

Thank you :)

[@valormold]

Fantastic explanation, Michael. I wholeheartedly agree. ERMI is a useful tool in the toolbox but shouldn't be used as a PRV test to judge if remediation was successful.

[@erinzellers5565]

Thank you so much! I needed this explanation to understand the need to continuously clean post remediation and be patient with healing ❤

[@jeffcharlton1]

Great video and provides good advice on benefits and some shortfalls

[@Victoria-pt6ll]

Excellent information. Thank you!

[@jonathandickler4800]

Great stuff

[@tammym.7065]

Could an ermi go up after remediation if you start renovating such as tearing up floors?

[@suzihazlove4979]

Benefeet. What's it made of? Vinegar?

[@vintagegirl1961]

We are smelling something very sweet only when we turn to central ac on.

[@TecraTube]

why even do an ERMI test if you're going to hire a professional home inspection? the professional home inspection will do their tests, which I can confirm, are not ERMI testing

[@scottbroberts]

What did they use? Our inspector used ERMI for us and regularly uses it.

[@TecraTube]

@@scottbroberts ERMI won't hold up in court. there's two types of mold testing- surface and air. ERMI is BS