CMA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CMA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. How does Aspergillus mold typically appear? → Green, yellow, and black
2. If post-remediation verification sampling fails to meet clearance criteria, what must happen next? → Additional remediation must be performed, followed by repeat verification sampling
3. What is the connection between mold and allergies? → Mold produces allergens that trigger allergic reactions
4. Which type of sampling is most appropriate to determine if a specific surface area is contaminated with mold when the surface appears clean after remediation? → Surface swab or tape lift from the cleaned surface
5. Which ASTM standard provides guidance specifically for the assessment of fungal growth in buildings? → ASTM D7338 (Assessment of Fungal Growth in Buildings)
6. How do moisture levels affect mold growth? → Moisture encourages mold growth by providing the necessary conditions
7. Why is it important to properly contain mold during remediation? → To avoid spreading mold spores to other areas
8. In the executive summary section of a mold assessment report, what should an assessor avoid including? → Specific numerical laboratory results without contextual explanation
9. Which mold genus is bright green and commonly used as a biological control agent against other fungi? → Trichoderma
10. Ulocladium is morphologically similar to which other common mold genus, making them sometimes difficult to distinguish? → Alternaria
11. How do you determine if mold remediation is successful? → If air and surface testing show mold levels within acceptable limits
12. How should mold-contaminated materials be disposed of? → By sealing them in plastic and following disposal guidelines
13. What is the minimum recommended volume of air typically collected per spore trap sample during clearance testing? → 75 liters
14. Why is post-remediation verification important? → To verify that mold has been removed and the area is safe
15. What is the significance of a laboratory reporting 'TNTC' (Too Numerous To Count) on a culture plate result? → Colony density exceeded reliable counting limits, requiring sample dilution or re-sampling
16. What are some common environmental conditions that promote mold growth? → Damp, humid conditions with poor ventilation
17. How should HVAC systems be handled prior to collecting post-remediation clearance air samples? → HVAC should be operating normally so conditions represent typical occupancy
18. Which psychrometric property represents the total heat content (sensible + latent) of moist air? → Enthalpy
19. What is the minimum liability insurance requirement typically mandated for licensed mold assessors under state licensing laws? → General liability and errors & omissions (E&O) insurance
20. What should be done if mold is found in HVAC systems? → Clean, sanitize, and inspect the system
21. Under Florida's mold assessment standards, a CMA must provide the client with which document before beginning mold-related work? → A signed contract and disclosure of any conflict of interest with remediation companies
22. How should personal protective equipment (PPE) be disposed of after mold remediation? → Dispose of the PPE in a sealed bag following safety standards
23. Who is generally qualified to perform post-remediation verification in states with mold assessor licensing requirements? → A licensed mold assessor who is independent of the remediation contractor
24. Which element should always be included in a mold assessment report to provide professional defensibility? → The assessor's license number, qualifications, and signature
25. In a bulk sample from water-damaged wood, Serpula lacrymans would indicate which specific type of decay? → Dry rot (brown cubical cracking decay)
26. What does the term 'hyphal fragments' refer to on a mold spore trap report? → Broken pieces of mold filaments that can carry allergens and mycotoxins
27. Which of the following is a sign of hidden mold growth? → Musty odors and unexplained water stains
28. What does a 'raw spore count' from a spore trap analysis represent? → The actual number of spores counted on the analysis slide before any calculations
29. Under OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom/GHS), what document must be available to workers who may be exposed to chemical mold remediation products? → Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
30. Memnoniella echinata is closely related to which notorious indoor mold and is sometimes found alongside it? → Stachybotrys chartarum