CMA Mold Inspection & Procedures 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which sampling method is BEST suited for identifying the specific location of mold growth on a surface?
- Spore trap air sampling
- Bulk sampling
- Surface tape-lift sampling (Correct answer)
- Bioaerosol impactor sampling
Correct answer: Surface tape-lift sampling
Tape-lift samples collect material directly from a surface, allowing the laboratory to identify mold species and density at a specific location.
Question 2: A homeowner had a roof leak repaired six months ago. During inspection, a CMA finds no visible mold but elevated moisture readings in ceiling drywall. What does this finding suggest?
- The moisture meter is malfunctioning and should be recalibrated
- Residual moisture may still support mold growth, requiring further investigation (Correct answer)
- The building is safe and no action is needed
- Mold cannot grow in dried drywall after six months
Correct answer: Residual moisture may still support mold growth, requiring further investigation
Drywall can retain moisture within its core even when surface-dry, and residual moisture above 15–17% can sustain or initiate mold growth.
Question 3: When is it acceptable for a CMA to collect air samples using a spore trap during a mold inspection?
- Only on calm, non-windy days to avoid outdoor infiltration
- After ensuring HVAC systems have been running normally for at least 24 hours (Correct answer)
- Immediately after disturbance of suspected mold areas to capture elevated counts
- Only in rooms without carpeting to avoid fiber interference
Correct answer: After ensuring HVAC systems have been running normally for at least 24 hours
Normal HVAC operation for 24 hours allows representative air mixing, ensuring that samples reflect typical indoor air quality conditions.
Question 4: A CMA discovers water damage in a crawl space with visible mold covering more than 10 square feet of wood joists. According to IICRC S520 guidelines, this situation requires:
- CMA self-remediation using consumer-grade antifungal products
- A licensed mold remediator to perform work under a separate remediation protocol (Correct answer)
- Only increased ventilation to dry the area naturally
- Immediate demolition and replacement of the entire crawl space
Correct answer: A licensed mold remediator to perform work under a separate remediation protocol
IICRC S520 classifies affected areas over 10 sq ft as Condition 3, requiring professional remediation separate from the assessment function.
Question 5: What does a high spore count of Stachybotrys chartarum in an air sample during a mold inspection typically indicate?
- Recent outdoor construction activity near the building
- Chronic, long-term water intrusion and wet cellulosic materials indoors (Correct answer)
- Seasonal pollen contamination affecting the sample
- Faulty laboratory analysis requiring re-sampling
Correct answer: Chronic, long-term water intrusion and wet cellulosic materials indoors
Stachybotrys chartarum requires persistently wet cellulosic materials (paper, wood) to amplify; its presence in air samples indicates chronic indoor moisture problems.
Question 6: During an inspection, a CMA observes efflorescence on a basement wall. What does this finding indicate about potential mold risk?
- The wall is structurally compromised and poses no mold risk
- Moisture is migrating through the masonry, creating conditions suitable for mold growth (Correct answer)
- Efflorescence is mold itself and should be immediately sampled
- The wall has been properly waterproofed, reducing mold risk
Correct answer: Moisture is migrating through the masonry, creating conditions suitable for mold growth
Efflorescence is a mineral deposit left by evaporating water, indicating ongoing moisture migration that can support mold growth on adjacent organic materials.
Question 7: A CMA is writing a mold assessment report. Which of the following is a REQUIRED element of the report under Florida administrative rules?
- A list of all mold species known to exist in the geographic region
- The scope of the mold assessment, findings, and recommendations for remediation if needed (Correct answer)
- Cost estimates for three competing remediation contractors
- Photographs taken with a minimum 12-megapixel camera
Correct answer: The scope of the mold assessment, findings, and recommendations for remediation if needed
Florida administrative code requires the assessment report to include the scope of work, findings of the inspection, and any recommendations for remediation.
CMA Mold Inspection & Procedures 3
Which sampling method is BEST suited for identifying the specific location of mold growth on a surface?