Testing Options for Your Home: Bacteria and more!

There are thousands of identified species of bacteria. Some of that bacteria can thrive in indoor environments. It can come directly from the occupant themselves or through other sources that have been introduced into the home through avenues like sewage back up, flooding, and stagnant water that has allowed airborne bacteria to thrive. Learn more about the role of bacteria in your environment in today's mini class!

In today’s mini class, we discuss bacteria testing!

You’ll learn:

  • Types of water loss by category
  • Types of bacteria
  • Why it’s important to test for bacteria
  • How to test for bacteria
  • How to read lab reports
  • Prevention strategies
  • And more!

Bonus Q & A

  • Mold plate/petri dish testing
  • Mold dogs as a testing tool
  • What molds are problematic to have indoors
  • Testing for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Download Mini Class Slides here.

A few important reminders about testing:

There are no perfect tests.

Each test has specific purposes and limitations.

Testing should answer a question you have about your home and influence your next steps.

Ultimately, testing is just one piece of the puzzle. Any testing should be done in combination with a thorough visual investigation of the entire home taking into account the history of the home and the health of the people in it. A good Indoor Environmental Professional (I.E.P.) can help you with this process.

Additional Mini Classes: