Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the correlation between ERMI values in the HUD American Healthy Home Survey (AHHS) homes and either inspector reports or occupant assessments of mold and moisture. Methods: In the AHHS, moisture and mold were assessed by a pair of inspectors and with an occupant questionnaire. These results were compared to the results of the Environmental Relative Moldiness Index (ERMI) values for each home. Results: Homes in the highest ERMI quartile were most often in agreement with visual inspection and/or occupant assessment. However, in 52% of the fourth quartile ERMI homes, the inspector and occupant assessment did not indicate water or mold problems. Yet the concentrations of each ERMI panel mold species detected in all fourth quartile homes were statistically indistinguishable. Conclusions: About 50% of water-damaged, moldy homes were not detected by inspection or questioning of the occupant about water and mold.
Revised: February 23, 2010 |
Published: November 30, 2009
Citation
Vesper S.J., C.A. McKinstry, D.J. Cox, and G. DeWalt. 2009.Correlation between ERMI values and other Moisture and Mold Assessments of Homes in the American Healthy Home Survey.Journal of Urban Health 86, no. 6:850-860.PNNL-SA-60188.