There are various methodologies utilized in mold identification. The most common is the “spore trap” whereby a prescribed amount of air is impacted onto a microscope slide. This slide is then observed under several magnifications where the various fungi are qualified (identified) and quantified (counted). The molds are identified as type and number per cubic meter of volume.

Other methodologies for mold identification are swabs and tape lifts. In this methodology a moistened swab or a piece of clear tape is applied to the suspected fungal colony.

All collected samples are submitted to a certified laboratory for mold identification. The laboratory prepares a report that identifies the types of mold and the spore counts or colony forming units.

Mold Identification to the genus level

When a homeowner or facility manager request mold identification, they will  receive a report from Georgia Environmental Assessment identifying the mold to the genus level. There are over 100,000 different types of mold identified so far. Each genus has or may have many specific species with each having its own characteristic. Even if there is need for mold identification to the specie level, the genus has to be identified in order to target a specific specie.

Mold Identification to the Specie Level

This is a more costly methodology as it requires a collected sample to be “grown” in controlled laboratory conditions. It usually takes approximately 10 days of “growing” in order to identify a specific specie. The process is usually requested by a medical doctor so that a correct course of action may be developed to treat a specific allergenic issue.

mold identification

Legendary socialite Bianca Jagger and Harlem single mom Tangia Edwards found common ground on the steps of City Hall yesterday, describing how mold infested their homes and sickened them while landlords did little to help.

“Mold is a dangerous threat, regardless of where one lives or how much rent one pays,” said Jagger, 60, who was forced to leave her Park Ave. pad four years ago because of mold.

Edwards tearfully told how she and her three sons suffer from asthma, headaches and memory loss because of mold at their St. Nicholas Ave. home.

“We just want a decent place to live,” she said.

Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum, who called the news conference, said the Department of Health saw mold complaints increase to 16,452 from 861 in 1999-2004.

She called on the city to make mold infestation a separate housing code violation with stiffer fines for landlords and require licenses for people who inspect mold problems.

“Mold exposure is a serious health concern in New York City,” Gotbaum said. “Yet there is no established and enforceable protocol for mold assessment and emediation.”

Jagger sued landlord Katz Park Ave. Corp. in 2003 for $20 million and must pay her $4,614 monthly rent into an escrow account while living elsewhere and as she continues her legal fight. Katz lawyer James Davies did not return messages.

Edwards said that she is still living in her unit, and accused her landlord of harassing her for complaining.

Her landlord, Bronx-based Prestige Management, declined to comment.