Specialty Testing
HERTSMI-2 mold testing, focused subset of ERMI.
HERTSMI-2 is a focused subset of the ERMI panel, measuring 5 high-relevance indicator species. It uses the same DNA-based methodology as ERMI but with a narrower scope, often requested for specific environmental sensitivity assessments.
About HERTSMI-2 testing
HERTSMI-2 testing is a dust-based environmental screening method commonly utilized to help evaluate indoor environments for specific water-damage-associated mold species commonly discussed within environmentally sensitive building investigations and CIRS-related building screening protocols.
In Florida's climate, elevated outdoor humidity, prolonged cooling seasons, condensation, and HVAC performance issues can contribute to persistent moisture conditions capable of supporting recurring microbial amplification even after remediation has been completed. Indoor relative humidity levels that remain elevated for prolonged periods, combined with short-cycling HVAC systems, inadequate dehumidification, building envelope deficiencies, or unresolved moisture intrusion conditions, may allow environmental fungal conditions to redevelop over time.
PureSpec Environmental collects HERTSMI-2 dust samples utilizing standardized dust collection methods from multiple representative surfaces within the target environment. Sampling locations may include:
- Door frames and upper trim surfaces
- Baseboards
- Ceiling fan blades
- HVAC supply registers
- Tops of cabinets or appliances
- Other elevated dust reservoirs within the indoor environment
All samples are collected utilizing documented chain-of-custody procedures and submitted to an accredited laboratory for analysis.
HERTSMI-2 testing is often utilized as part of a broader environmental assessment process that may also include:
- Moisture mapping
- HVAC evaluation
- Thermal imaging
- Mold inspection
- Air sampling
- ERMI testing
- Post-remediation verification
- Indoor environmental quality assessments
Because Florida's climate creates year-round moisture stress on buildings, environmental conditions may change over time depending on humidity control, HVAC performance, occupant behavior, maintenance practices, and building envelope conditions. In some situations, follow-up environmental testing after remediation or corrective actions may be recommended to help evaluate long-term environmental stability.
HERTSMI-2 testing is an environmental screening tool and is not intended to diagnose medical conditions or determine individual health outcomes. Interpretation of results should be considered together with building conditions, occupant concerns, environmental observations, and guidance from qualified medical professionals when appropriate.
What it covers
What's included.
- Dust sample collection on standard cartridge
- Lab DNA analysis (qPCR) for the 5 HERTSMI-2 species
- HERTSMI-2 score with reference comparison
- Plain-English interpretation
When you need it
Right scenarios for this service.
- Healthcare provider has specifically requested HERTSMI-2
- Environmentally sensitive client tracking specific species
- Cost-conscious alternative to a full ERMI when the question is narrow
- Pre/post-remediation tracking of specific indicator species
How it works
Process overview.
Consultation → Sampling visit → Lab analysis → HERTSMI-2 score report.
The inspector
Daniel Melendez
Founder · Lead Inspector
- License
- MRSA #4575
- Certifications
- ACAC CMI · NAERMC CMH · NAERMC Green IAQ · Pathways™
- Education
- B.S. Microbiology
- Background
- Former lab analyst
Why a microbiologist
A microbiologist with a lab background, not a contractor with a weekend course.
Most Florida mold inspectors learned the trade in a weekend course. Daniel holds a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and worked as an environmental laboratory analyst, the person other inspectors ship their samples to, before founding PureSpec.
He reads spore counts, growth patterns, and species behavior the way the labs that run the analysis do. Every inspection is founder-performed, lab-supported, and assessment-only: Daniel personally walks the property, collects the samples, interprets the lab data, and writes the report.
No subcontractors, no remediation upsell, no kickbacks. Florida law (FS 468.8419) prohibits the same firm from inspecting and remediating, and PureSpec is built around that line.
How an inspection actually works
Nine steps. Same scientific process, every property.
The depth of each step adapts to your situation. HVAC and borescope inspection happen when conditions warrant. Sampling is decided based on what your specific environment is asking, not a fixed checklist.
- 01
Consultation
We talk through what you’re seeing, the building, and the question you need answered. Free, no pressure, no upsell.
- 02
Visual inspection
Daniel personally walks every accessible space. No subcontractors.
- 03
Moisture mapping
Pin and pinless moisture meters identify elevated wall, floor, and substrate moisture invisible to the eye.
- 04
Thermal imaging
Infrared imaging surfaces temperature differentials that often correlate with hidden moisture or insulation gaps.
- 05
HVAC evaluation
Coil, plenum, return, and ductwork assessment. The #1 hidden vector for indoor mold in Florida buildings.
- 06
Targeted sampling
Air, surface, swab, ERMI, HERTSMI-2, mycotoxin, Pathways™, VOC, or formaldehyde, only the tests your situation warrants.
- 07
Lab analysis
Samples sent to AIHA-LAP-accredited third-party laboratories. Results returned within 24 to 72 hours of receipt.
- 08
Written report
Plain-English report with photos, lab data, moisture readings, observations, and clear next steps. Built to hold up with insurers, lenders, healthcare providers, and counsel.
- 09
Remediation protocol when warranted
If the report identifies remediation-grade mold, Daniel writes the IICRC S520-aligned remediation protocol, scope, containment, methods, and clearance criteria, that the remediation contractor works to. Florida law prohibits the same firm from inspecting and remediating, so the protocol stays independent of the work crew.
Service areas
Where we perform HERTSMI-2 Testing.
15 Florida counties from Central Florida to South Florida, the Tampa Bay area, and North Florida. Click the county nearest you for local context.
Central Florida coverage