Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome

Environmental Relative Moldiness Index (ERMI) is a research tool developed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency scientists for estimating mold contamination in homes by taking dust samples of carpet and comparing them to other dust samples of carpet taken across the country. However, it can be misleading. A true ERMI is limited to carpet samples only.  ERMI is limited to only 36 species of mold and it does not take into account the cause or origin of potential mold contamination. You could actually have a high overall mold count and get a low score, or a low overall mold count and get a high score. Because of this potential, the US EPA states that is a research tool only and is not intended for public use. The US EPA also states that assessment for water damage and mold remain the key to current EPA mold assessment guidance. 

Every project is unique; therefore, any testing protocol will discussed with you after the visible inspection prior to proceeding. Testing is done to confirm mold growth is present and to determine the extent of potential contamination. 

According to the US EPA, exposure to mold can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory issues, headaches, fatigue, and allergic reactions. Any medical questions or concerns should be addressed by a qualified medical care provider.

Because each project is unique, it is impossible to  quote a job without a proper assessment. Identifying and correcting or preventing the cause of the mold growth is the most important step to ensure that mold growth does not re-occur.  

A non-viable (dead) mold spore is just as potentially toxic and allergenic as a viable (living) mold spore. Because of this, killing potential mold growth instead of physical removal is generally ineffective and is often considered sub-standard (ANSI/IICRC S520 Standard for Mold Remediation; Arkansas Guidelines for Mold Abatement Contractors). Be cautious of individuals who promise to kill mold in lieu of source removal.

Painting or sealing over suspected mold growth does not remove the potential allergenic or toxigenic properties of airborne spores. Consequently, sealing or painting over potential mold growth instead of physical removal is generally ineffective and is often considered sub-standard (ANSI/IICRC S520 Standard for Mold Remediation; Arkansas Guidelines for Mold Abatement Contractors). Be cautious of individuals who promise to paint over potential mold in lieu of source removal.

Generally, it is impossible to assess potential mold growth in ductwork by visible inspection only. The professional standard (NADCA ACR) for HVAC and companies who clean ductwork states they are to defer to an IEP (Indoor Environmental Professional) for an assessment and testing.