The Claro mold test results rubric
You got the mold test results back. Now what? Whether it is an Instascope report, a lab air test, an ERMI score, or a mycotoxin urine panel, this rubric helps you understand what the numbers mean and when to consider remediation.
The Rubric:
When Does Mold Require Treatment?
Before diving into specific test types, here is our general framework. If any one of these is true, we recommend mold remediation:
Toxic marker mold present
Molds like Stachybotrys ("black mold") or Chaetomium are dangerous even at very low levels. A single spore on a test is a major red flag.
Elevated spore counts in air tests
You want to compare spore counts to outdoor levels but generally if you are 2x+ outdoor levels the mold is likely growing somewhere inside.
Visible mold spreading
If you can see mold growing inside your house, you don’t need a test. You have a problem.
Mold in your body
Mold in your blood, urine, or other lab work, or a mold illness diagnosis from your doctor, means your home or work environment needs to be addressed.
Which Test Results Do You Have?
Select your test type below to learn exactly how to read your results and what they mean.
Real-Time
Instascope Air Test
Real-time results
Color-coded results comparing each room against outdoor air quality. Green, yellow, and red tell you immediately if mold is growing inside.
Read the Instascope rubric
Lab Analysis
Lab Air Test (Spore Trap)
Lab results, 2-10 business days
Lists mold species and spore counts per cubic meter. The most common report type. Tells you exactly which molds are in your air.
Read the lab test rubric
Physical Sample
Surface / Tape Lift
Lab results, ~5 days
Identifies exactly what mold species is growing on a specific surface. Confirms whether that suspicious spot is actually mold.
Read the surface test rubric
Dust Sample
ERMI Test
Lab results, 3-7 days
A single score rating your home's moldiness based on DNA analysis of settled dust. Ranges from roughly -10 to 20. Higher is worse.
Read the ERMI rubric
Medical Test
Mycotoxin Urine Test
From your doctor
Measures toxic mold byproducts in your body. If your doctor found mycotoxins in your urine, this explains what the levels mean.
Read the mycotoxin rubric