DNA testing for mould since 2011

A new DNA test for mould

HouseTest has developed a new DNA analysis for mould that can conclusively demonstrate the extent of problematic mould growth in buildings.

HouseTest’s DNA analysis involves collecting dust or air samples from the building in question and sending it to our laboratory. The sample is then analysed for traces of mould DNA.

Why test samples for mould DNA?

DNA molecules are part of all living organisms. Dust contains spores and fragments of mould, so sampling and analysing that dust allows us to analyse the DNA of the mould. 

Each species of mould has a unique DNA sequence. This means that analysing the DNA of mould reveals what species that mould belongs to. Using the qPCR method of analysis also reveals the quantity of each species in each sample. 

How healthy is your building?

HouseTest is able to assess the overall state of health of the building on the basis of the species and quantity of mould found in the sample. 

The DNA analysis that HouseTest undertakes is able to detect mould growing out of sight. This limits the amount of destructive investigatory work required to diagnose mould problems.