Specialty Testing
ERMI mold testing, DNA-based, EPA-referenced.
Environmental Relative Moldiness Index (ERMI) testing uses standardized DNA-based analysis of dust samples to quantify 36 indicator mold species. The result is a score relative to EPA reference data. EPA states that ERMI has been peer-reviewed for research purposes but not validated for non-research use (EPA ERMI fact sheet, 2021), and that limitation belongs in any decision to order or interpret it.
Standard coverage includes Orange, Seminole, Lake, Osceola and Polk counties. For properties outside these counties, contact PureSpec for a written quote before booking. Any travel charge is disclosed in your written quote.
What is ERMI mold testing?
ERMI, the Environmental Relative Moldiness Index, is a dust DNA test that measures 36 specific mold species in a single settled-dust sample using quantitative PCR to detect the genetic signature of species characteristic of water-damaged buildings. The panel separates water-damage indicator species from common indoor species and combines them into a single index value. One distinction matters more than any other: ERMI is not an air test. DNA analysis detects genetic material whether the spores are alive or dead, so it describes the genetic material present in the dust that was collected. It does not date that material, and it does not describe what is airborne right now. That present-state question belongs to a spore-trap air sample. The dust is collected under protocol and analyzed by an accredited laboratory.
What it covers
What's included?
- Dust collection from settled-dust locations on standard ERMI swab cartridge
- Lab DNA analysis (qPCR) for 36 indicator species
- ERMI score with EPA reference comparison
- Species-by-species breakdown
- Plain-English interpretation report
When you need it
When is this service the right fit?
- A settled-dust DNA result is requested, understanding EPA’s research-use limitation
- Healthcare provider-referred environmental workup
- Comparison testing pre- and post-remediation
- Documentation for an environmentally sensitive client
How it works
How does the process work?
Consultation → ~30-min sampling visit → Lab analysis (typically 5-10 business days) → ERMI score report.
Service areas
Where we perform ERMI Mold Testing.
Orlando and Central Florida as the primary market, with statewide Florida projects available based on scope, scheduling, and travel requirements. Click the county nearest you for local context.
Honest answers
ERMI testing, answered.
Is ERMI an air test?
No. ERMI analyzes settled dust, not air. It detects genetic material whether the spores are alive or dead, so it describes the dust that was collected rather than what is airborne right now. It does not provide a dependable building history.
What does the ERMI score mean?
It is an index calculated from 36 species, separating water-damage indicators from common indoor species. The score describes the settled dust that was sampled, and EPA has not validated ERMI for non-research use. What it means for a person is a question for a treating clinician.
Should I run ERMI or HERTSMI-2?
ERMI covers 36 species and gives the fuller picture. HERTSMI-2 narrows the same method to five high-relevance species, which is faster to interpret. Where a treating provider has asked for one specifically, that generally settles it.
Central Florida coverage