ERMI Test Service
Evaluate your indoor environment with DNA-based mold testing. The EnviroBiomics ERMI Test Service analyzes 36 selected mold species or groups in settled dust and provides quantitative laboratory results together with an ERMI Score.
DNA-Based Environmental Mold Testing
Analyze settled dust for 36 selected mold species or groups using DNA-based laboratory methods and receive quantitative results together with an ERMI Score.
View the ERMI Mold Test →What Is the ERMI Test?
ERMI stands for Environmental Relative Moldiness Index. It is an environmental testing approach that uses DNA-based laboratory analysis to measure selected mold species in settled dust collected from homes and buildings.
The ERMI Mold Test analyzes a defined panel of 36 selected mold species or groups. Results provide quantitative information about mold DNA detected in the submitted sample and are used to calculate an ERMI Score.
ERMI was developed by researchers at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a research tool for evaluating mold in indoor dust. Learn more about indoor environmental quality from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency →
How Does ERMI Testing Work?
The ERMI Test Service evaluates 36 selected mold species or groups using mold-specific quantitative PCR analysis. The molds used in the ERMI calculation are organized into two groups.
Group 1
Mold species or groups historically associated with water-damaged environments.
Group 2
Mold species or groups commonly found in indoor environments.
The concentrations measured in these groups are used to calculate the ERMI Score, providing additional context for the mold profile detected in the submitted dust sample.
What Does Your ERMI Test Include?
Understanding Your ERMI Score
The ERMI Score is calculated from the concentrations of the Group 1 and Group 2 molds measured in the submitted sample. It provides a relative index that can help place the detected mold profile into context.
A higher ERMI Score generally reflects a greater relative contribution from the Group 1 molds included in the calculation. However, the score should not be interpreted by itself as evidence of active mold growth or as a determination that a building is safe or unsafe.
When May an ERMI Mold Test Be Useful?
ERMI testing may provide useful environmental information when evaluating a home or building, particularly when additional information about selected molds in settled dust is desired.
- Current or previous water damage
- Moisture intrusion or persistent dampness
- Previous mold growth or remediation
- Indoor environmental quality investigations
- Property evaluations before purchase or occupancy
- Follow-up environmental assessments
ERMI Testing vs. Air Sampling
Settled Dust Analysis
Evaluates DNA from selected molds present in a submitted settled dust sample.
- 36 selected mold species or groups
- DNA-based laboratory analysis
- Quantitative results
- ERMI Score
Short-Term Air Sample
Evaluates airborne material collected during a specific sampling period.
- Represents the sampling period
- Measures airborne material
- Results depend on sampling conditions
- Answers different environmental questions
Neither method replaces a building inspection. The appropriate sampling approach depends on the purpose of the investigation and the conditions of the building.
How to Use the ERMI Test Service
Order Your Test
Select the ERMI testing option that fits your environmental testing needs.
Collect Your Sample
Follow the sampling instructions provided with your EnviroBiomics test.
Send It to the Laboratory
Return the environmental sample to EnviroBiomics for laboratory analysis.
Receive Your Results
Review your quantitative mold results and ERMI Score in the laboratory report.
Important to Know
ERMI is an environmental laboratory analysis of the submitted sample. Detection of fungal DNA does not by itself confirm active mold growth, identify the source of contamination, or establish whether the detected organisms are viable.
Environmental results should be considered together with the building’s moisture history, sampling conditions, visual observations, inspection findings, and other relevant environmental information.
ERMI testing does not diagnose medical conditions. Questions about symptoms, exposure, or personal health should be discussed with an appropriate healthcare professional.
Get a Clearer View of Your Indoor Environment
Measure 36 selected mold species or groups in settled dust with DNA-based laboratory analysis and receive quantitative results together with an ERMI Score.
Order the ERMI Mold Test →