Our four types of mould test
HouseTest offers four different types of mould test, each tailor-made for different scenarios and levels of expertise.
Dust DNA test (screening for concealed moulds)
Our DNA test for household dust is our most widely used test.
Dust is collected from a flat surface such as a doorframe or a shelf using a swab, and shipped for analysis to HouseTest’s laboratory.
This method is used for screening a building for concealed mould growth.
HouseTest’s dust analysis can be used both by professionals and non-specialists, because taking a sample requires no specialist equipment or training.
Air sample test
Air samples can also be used when screening for concealed moulds. Air samples are usually taken in cases where it is not possible to take a suitable dust sample.
Air samples are usually collected using activated air, — which is where the air is manually or mechanically disturbed before a sample is taken. This means that any traces of mould DNA is rendered airborne - this is especially useful in cases where there is hidden mould growth.
HouseTest can also analyse samples of undisturbed or passive air. In these cases, an outdoor reference sample is also taken.
Air samples can only be performed by specialists. HouseTest’s experts are always available to advise customers which type of test best suits their needs.
Surface swab test
Sampling is carried out by swabbing directly on a microbiological growth. The sample is analysed to determine the species composition. This service is only offered to specialists.
Clean-up and compliance test
HouseTest’s clean-up and compliance test has been developed to evaluate the final clean-up following mould remediation work.
Please note that it is the final clean-up and not the mould remediation itself which is assessed. The data is evaluated on the basis of predetermined criteria, meaning that the success or otherwise of satinisation work can be confirmed.
Sampling is done by an activated air sample and can only be carried out by specialists in the UK.
