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★★★★★
“Evan is a great guy. Was patient with my questions. Was very thorough with the inspection, explanations, and testing.”
DNA-BASED ERMI MOLD TESTING
ERMI Mold Testing in Massachusetts & New Hampshire
ERMI stands for Environmental Relative Moldiness Index. An ERMI mold test uses settled-dust sampling and DNA-based laboratory analysis to identify and quantify specific mold species in the collected sample. It provides a broader dust-based mold profile, but it does not by itself locate the source of mold growth or replace a physical mold inspection when building conditions, moisture, or water intrusion need to be evaluated.
600+ Five-Star Google Reviews
30+ Years Combined Experience
Independent Testing
We Do Not Perform Remediation
✓ ERMI Settled-Dust Mold Testing
WHY CLIENTS REQUEST ERMI TESTING
ERMI Mold Testing Provides a Different Type of Mold Data
ERMI testing uses settled-dust sampling and DNA-based laboratory analysis to evaluate mold species present in the collected sample. Unlike traditional air sampling, which captures airborne spores during a defined sampling period, ERMI evaluates mold DNA contained in settled dust and provides a broader dust-based profile of the species included in the ERMI panel.
DNA-Based Laboratory Analysis
ERMI uses DNA-based laboratory analysis to identify and quantify specific mold species detected in the settled-dust sample.
Settled-Dust Sampling
Dust is collected from selected interior areas and submitted for laboratory analysis rather than relying only on a short-duration airborne sample.
36 Mold Species Evaluated
Standard ERMI analysis evaluates 36 mold species and provides quantitative laboratory data for the organisms included in the ERMI panel.
Results Explained in Context
Laboratory findings are reviewed so clients can understand what was detected, the ERMI value reported, and how the data relates to the reason the testing was requested.
What ERMI Does Not Tell You
An ERMI result does not by itself identify where mold is growing, determine the source of moisture, or replace a physical mold inspection when the concern involves water intrusion, visible growth, odors, or other building conditions.
✓ Settled-Dust Sampling • DNA-Based Mold Analysis
GET STARTED
Request ERMI Mold Testing
Tell us about the property and why you are considering ERMI testing. We’ll review the request and contact you regarding settled-dust sampling, pricing, availability, and scheduling.
ERMI MOLD TESTING & DUST ANALYSIS
What Is an ERMI Mold Test?
ERMI stands for Environmental Relative Moldiness Index. It was developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a research tool and uses DNA-based quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis to identify and quantify 36 mold species in a settled-dust sample. The laboratory data is used to calculate an ERMI value based on the mold species included in the analysis.
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Settled-Dust Sampling
Dust is collected from selected indoor surfaces using the receiving laboratory's sampling protocol and submitted for specialized DNA-based mold analysis.
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DNA-Based qPCR Analysis
Quantitative polymerase chain reaction technology is used to identify and quantify the mold species included in the standard ERMI panel.
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36 Mold Species
Standard ERMI analysis includes 26 Group 1 mold species and 10 Group 2 mold species used in calculating the reported ERMI value.
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Laboratory Results & ERMI Value
The laboratory report provides quantitative mold-species data and a calculated ERMI value that can be reviewed alongside the reason the test was requested.
What an ERMI Test Does — and Does Not — Tell You
ERMI provides laboratory data from a settled-dust sample. It does not diagnose a health condition, determine whether a property is safe or unsafe, identify the physical source or location of mold growth, or determine why moisture is present. When the concern involves visible growth, water intrusion, odors, moisture, or building conditions, a physical mold inspection may provide information that an ERMI sample alone cannot.
TRUSTED INSPECTION & TESTING PROFESSIONALS
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Property owners throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire rely on Elite for independent mold inspections, mold testing, ERMI testing, and other indoor environmental services.
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Janet Google Review
★★★★★
“Excellent experience with Elite Home and Mold inspection service. Abe was professional, extremely knowledgeable, and very informative throughout the entire process.”
OUR ERMI TESTING PROCESS
How Does ERMI Mold Testing Work?
ERMI mold testing uses settled household dust and DNA-based laboratory analysis to identify and quantify the mold species included in the ERMI panel. The process focuses on collecting a representative settled-dust sample and submitting it for specialized qPCR analysis.
1
Review the Testing Request
We review why ERMI testing is being requested, relevant property information, and the areas being considered for sampling before selecting the collection location.
2
Collect the Settled-Dust Sample
Settled household dust is collected from designated interior surfaces using the receiving laboratory's ERMI collection protocol and prepared for submission.
3
DNA-Based qPCR Laboratory Analysis
The laboratory uses quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis to identify and quantify the 36 mold species included in the standard ERMI panel.
4
ERMI Results & Interpretation
The laboratory report includes individual mold-species quantities, Group 1 and Group 2 findings, and a calculated ERMI value. We explain what the laboratory data can and cannot establish.
ERMI Testing Is Not the Same as a Mold Inspection
An ERMI test provides laboratory data from settled dust. It does not identify the physical location or extent of mold growth, determine the source of moisture or water intrusion, or evaluate building conditions. When the concern involves visible or suspected mold, musty odors, active moisture, water damage, or possible concealed growth, a professional mold inspection or moisture evaluation may provide important additional information.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR MOLD TESTING OPTIONS
ERMI Mold Testing vs. Traditional Mold Testing
ERMI testing and traditional mold testing use different sampling and laboratory methods. ERMI analyzes settled dust for specific mold DNA, while traditional testing may include air or surface samples selected for a particular area or concern. Neither approach should automatically be treated as a replacement for evaluating the property itself when moisture or building conditions are involved.
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ERMI Uses Settled Household Dust
ERMI analyzes dust collected from selected interior surfaces and uses DNA-based laboratory analysis to identify and quantify the 36 mold species included in the ERMI panel.
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Air Sampling Measures Airborne Spores
Traditional mold air testing collects a measured volume of air. Laboratory analysis identifies and counts spores captured during that specific sampling period.
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Surface Sampling Is Location-Specific
Tape lifts, swabs, or other surface samples may be used when laboratory identification is desired from a particular visible or suspect area.
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Different Sampling Perspectives
Settled dust reflects material accumulated over time, while air sampling captures airborne spores during a defined collection period. Neither method independently identifies the physical source of mold growth.
ERMI and Air Sampling: Key Differences
Testing Feature ERMI Testing Air Sampling
Sample Type Settled household dust Indoor or outdoor air
Analysis Method DNA-based qPCR Microscopic spore analysis
Primary Results 36 species and ERMI calculation Spore types and concentrations
Sampling Perspective Accumulated settled dust Airborne spores during collection
Sample Type
ERMI Testing Settled household dust
Air Sampling Indoor or outdoor air
Analysis Method
ERMI Testing DNA-based qPCR
Air Sampling Microscopic spore analysis
Primary Results
ERMI Testing 36 species and ERMI calculation
Air Sampling Spore types and concentrations
Sampling Perspective
ERMI Testing Accumulated settled dust
Air Sampling Airborne spores during collection
Which Mold Testing Method Is Appropriate? The appropriate method depends on the question being evaluated. ERMI was developed as a research tool and should not be treated as a stand-alone determination that a property is safe or unsafe. When the concern involves visible or suspected mold, moisture, water intrusion, or current airborne conditions, a professional mold inspection or traditional mold testing may provide different or additional information. For a deeper comparison, read our guide to ERMI testing vs. traditional mold testing .
WHEN CLIENTS REQUEST ERMI TESTING
When Might an ERMI Mold Test Be Useful?
ERMI testing may be requested when the goal is to obtain DNA-based information about mold species present in settled household dust. Because ERMI provides a different type of data than air or surface sampling, it may be used as a supplemental testing method when that information is specifically desired.
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Prior Water Damage or Mold History
A client may request ERMI testing after previous flooding, plumbing leaks, roof leaks, water intrusion, or mold concerns when a settled-dust mold profile is desired.
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When Settled-Dust Data Is Desired
Some clients specifically want DNA-based analysis of settled household dust rather than a short-duration airborne sample.
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Detailed Mold Species Data
ERMI evaluates 36 mold species using DNA-based qPCR analysis and provides quantitative laboratory data for the organisms included in the standard panel.
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As Part of a Broader Environmental Evaluation
ERMI may be used alongside inspection, moisture evaluation, air sampling, surface sampling, or other mold testing methods when additional laboratory data is useful.
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Property or Environmental Due Diligence
Buyers, owners, consultants, or property managers may request ERMI testing when they want additional environmental information about settled dust within a property.
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When ERMI Has Been Specifically Requested
ERMI testing may also be appropriate when a client, consultant, physician, or other professional has specifically requested this type of settled-dust laboratory analysis.
ERMI Is Not the Starting Point for Every Mold Concern
ERMI was developed as a research tool and should not be treated as a stand-alone determination of health risk or whether a building is safe or unsafe. It also does not locate mold growth or identify the source of moisture. When the primary concern is an active leak, visible or suspected mold, musty odors, water intrusion, or other building conditions, a professional mold inspection may be the more appropriate starting point.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR ERMI LAB REPORT
What Do You Receive From an ERMI Mold Test?
An ERMI laboratory report provides quantitative results for the 36 mold species included in the standard panel, along with Group 1 and Group 2 data and a calculated Environmental Relative Moldiness Index value. We review the laboratory report with clients and explain what the results can and cannot establish.
YOUR ERMI LABORATORY REPORT
More Than a Single ERMI Number
The report includes individual mold-species measurements in addition to the calculated ERMI value. Reviewing the species data, Group 1 and Group 2 results, and the reason testing was requested provides more context than looking only at the final ERMI score.
36 Mold Species Analyzed
26 Group 1 Species
10 Group 2 Species
Group 1 Mold Species
Group 1 contains 26 mold species used in the ERMI analysis. The laboratory reports the quantities detected in the collected settled-dust sample.
Group 2 Mold Species
Group 2 includes 10 mold species used as the comparison component within the ERMI calculation.
Calculated ERMI Value
The laboratory uses the Group 1 and Group 2 measurements to calculate the reported ERMI value. The value is a research-based index rather than a percentage, health score, or direct measurement of airborne mold exposure.
Clear Explanation of the Results
We review the reported species, laboratory measurements, Group 1 and Group 2 data, and calculated ERMI value so clients understand the information provided by the test and its limitations.
ERMI Is Not a Pass-or-Fail Mold Test
ERMI was developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a research tool. An ERMI result should not be interpreted as a stand-alone determination that a property is safe or unsafe, that an occupant will experience health effects, or that remediation is required. It also does not identify the physical location or extent of mold growth or determine the source of moisture.
When the concern involves active water intrusion, visible or suspected mold, musty odors, concealed growth, or building moisture, a professional mold inspection or moisture evaluation may provide additional property-specific information.
WHY CHOOSE ELITE
Why Choose Elite for ERMI Mold Testing?
Elite provides professional ERMI settled-dust sampling throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire. With over 30 years of combined experience in the construction and environmental industries, our approach combines careful sample collection, independent testing, building-science experience, and clear explanation of the laboratory findings and their limitations.
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Independent Environmental Testing
We do not perform mold remediation. Our role is to provide independent sampling, laboratory testing coordination, and clear explanation of the ERMI laboratory results.
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Professional Settled-Dust Sampling
Settled household dust is collected using the appropriate ERMI sampling method and the receiving laboratory's collection requirements.
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Mold Inspection & Building-Science Experience
Our background in mold inspection, moisture evaluation, indoor environmental assessment, and building science helps us explain when ERMI data may need to be considered alongside property-specific observations or other testing.
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DNA-Based Laboratory Analysis
Collected dust is submitted for qPCR analysis of the 36 mold species included in the standard ERMI panel, including individual species quantities and the calculated ERMI value.
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Clear ERMI Results Explanation
We review the laboratory report and explain the reported species, Group 1 and Group 2 data, calculated ERMI value, and the limitations of the testing method.
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Massachusetts & New Hampshire Service
ERMI testing is available for homeowners and property professionals throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire, with mold inspection and moisture evaluation available when additional property-specific information is needed.
Over 30 Years of Combined Experience
Our experience spans the construction and environmental industries, including mold inspection, building science, moisture evaluation, indoor environmental assessment, and environmental testing.
MASSACHUSETTS & NEW HAMPSHIRE
ERMI Mold Testing Service Areas
ERMI Testing Throughout Massachusetts & New Hampshire
Elite provides professional ERMI settled-dust sampling throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire, including Boston, Greater Boston, the North Shore, MetroWest, communities north of Boston, and Southern New Hampshire. Samples are submitted for specialized DNA-based laboratory analysis, and we explain the laboratory findings, calculated ERMI value, and limitations of the test.
✓ Massachusetts
✓ Boston & Greater Boston
✓ Southern New Hampshire
✓ Residential & Commercial Properties
- Manchester
- Nashua
- Salem
- Windham
- Londonderry
- Derry
- Bedford
- Merrimack
- Hudson
- Atkinson
- Pelham
- Hollis
- Amherst
- Exeter
- Portsmouth
- Concord
- Hooksett
- Wolfeboro
- Meredith
- Moultonborough
- Center Harbor
- Tuftonboro
- Alton
- Gilford
- Laconia
- Holderness
- New Hampton
- Ossipee
- North Conway
- Marshfield
- Hingham
- Scituate
- Duxbury
- Pembroke
- Norwell
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT ERMI TESTING
ERMI Mold Testing FAQs
Settled-Dust Sampling, qPCR Analysis & ERMI Results
Learn more about Environmental Relative Moldiness Index testing, settled-dust sampling, DNA-based qPCR analysis, ERMI values, testing limitations, and how ERMI differs from traditional mold inspection and testing.
What is ERMI mold testing?
ERMI stands for Environmental Relative Moldiness Index. It was developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a research tool and uses DNA-based qPCR analysis of settled household dust to evaluate 36 mold species. Results include individual species measurements and a calculated ERMI value.
How is an ERMI dust sample collected?
Settled household dust is collected from selected indoor surfaces using the collection method specified by the receiving laboratory. The sample is then submitted for specialized DNA-based mold analysis.
How is ERMI different from traditional mold testing?
ERMI evaluates specific mold DNA found in settled dust. Traditional mold testing may include air sampling for airborne spores or surface sampling from a specific area. These methods answer different questions and use different sampling and laboratory techniques. Learn more about our mold testing services .
How many mold species does ERMI testing measure?
Standard ERMI analysis evaluates 36 mold species. The panel includes 26 Group 1 species and 10 Group 2 species used in calculating the reported ERMI value.
What does an ERMI score mean?
The ERMI value is a research-based index calculated using measurements from the Group 1 and Group 2 mold species included in the panel. It is not a percentage, a direct measure of airborne mold exposure, or a pass-or-fail score. The individual species data and reason for testing should also be considered when reviewing the report.
Is there a safe or unsafe ERMI score?
ERMI should not be interpreted as a stand-alone determination that a property is safe or unsafe. An ERMI result by itself does not establish health risk, determine whether remediation is required, or replace evaluation of mold, moisture, and building conditions when those concerns are present.
Can ERMI testing identify hidden mold?
ERMI may detect mold DNA in the collected dust sample, but it cannot determine where mold growth is physically located or how extensive concealed growth may be. When hidden mold, active moisture, water intrusion, or building conditions are the concern, a professional mold inspection may provide more direct property-specific information.
Can ERMI testing determine whether mold is affecting my health?
No. ERMI is an environmental testing method. It does not diagnose medical conditions, determine an individual's mold exposure, or predict health effects. Health-related questions should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.
Can ERMI testing be used after mold remediation?
ERMI may provide additional settled-dust information, but it is not a stand-alone remediation clearance test. Post-remediation verification should be based on the remediation scope and may include visual assessment, moisture evaluation, and appropriate air or surface sampling. Learn more about post-remediation verification .
Can ERMI testing be performed without a full mold inspection?
Yes. ERMI may be requested as a stand-alone settled-dust analysis when that is the specific information being sought. However, when the concern involves visible or suspected mold, musty odors, active moisture, water intrusion, or possible concealed growth, a mold inspection may provide important additional information about the property.
RELATED ERMI & MOLD RESOURCES
Learn More About ERMI & Mold Testing
Explore related resources covering ERMI testing, traditional mold testing, mold inspections, and broader environmental testing throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
ERMI COMPARISON GUIDE
ERMI Testing vs. Traditional Mold Testing
Compare ERMI settled-dust testing with air sampling, surface sampling, and traditional mold inspection methods, including what each approach can and cannot tell you.
READ THE GUIDE → MOLD TESTING
Traditional Mold Testing
Learn about air sampling, surface sampling, laboratory analysis, and other mold testing methods used for specific property concerns.
VIEW MOLD TESTING → MOLD INSPECTION
Professional Mold Inspections
A physical mold inspection evaluates visible conditions, moisture, water intrusion, odors, and building factors that an ERMI dust sample alone cannot identify.
VIEW MOLD INSPECTIONS → ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING
Environmental Testing Services
Explore mold, indoor air quality, VOC and formaldehyde, asbestos, moisture, and other environmental testing services available throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
VIEW ENVIRONMENTAL TESTING → PROFESSIONAL ERMI MOLD TESTING
Need an ERMI Mold Test?
Elite provides independent ERMI settled-dust sampling with DNA-based qPCR laboratory analysis throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire. The laboratory report includes quantitative results for the 36 mold species in the ERMI panel and a calculated ERMI value, with clear explanation of what the results can and cannot establish.
Independent Testing
Settled-Dust Sampling
DNA-Based qPCR Analysis
36 Mold Species Evaluated
We Do Not Perform Remediation
★ 600+ Five-Star Reviews
SERVING MASSACHUSETTS • BOSTON & GREATER BOSTON • NEW HAMPSHIRE