Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) is a molecule found only in and around living cells, and as such,
it gives a direct measure of biological concentration and health. ATP is quantified by measuring
the light produced through its reaction with the naturally occurring firefly enzyme Luciferase
using a luminometer. The amount of light produced is directly proportional to the amount of
biological energy present in the sample. Once a sample is collected, it is placed in the luminometer
instrument, and the readout is reported as a numerical value measured in relative light units
(RLUs). By approximating the number of microorganisms responsible for generating known
RLUs, one can estimate the number of microorganisms in the sample. This test can be performed
at the loss location in just minutes and be a real-time option for providing instant results for
bio-contamination testing on surfaces or in liquids.

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ATP testing can be used to determine the level of surface contamination for viable biological
matter, primarily bacteria and bio-films that may be present in contaminated water or on surfaces
impacted by category 1, 2, or 3 water. Typically, we rely on our contractor’s judgment regarding
determination of category 1, 2, and 3 water losses, as long as their recommendation is in
accordance with industry standards (ANSI/IICRC S500–2015) and validated by their documentation
(photos, etc.). Occasionally, due to an unknown source or date of loss, the contractor may struggle
to make this determination, which can have large ramifications regarding what type and amount
of materials are removed and replaced and potential health issues related to exposure by
occupants. When testing water to determine category 1, 2, or 3, see the liquid/water guidelines
on the following page that use the Bio-reveal Aquasnap sampling device. ATP testing can also
be used to evaluate the level of surface cleanliness and overall hygiene of biohazard-impacted
materials post-cleaning. See biohazard contamination testing guidelines on the following page
using the Bio-reveal Ultrasnap swab. ATP testing may be a solution if the contractor has it
available and been trained on its use. Performing an ATP test is billable in Xactimate with the
code WTRTESTATP+ for around $20 to $25 per sample. Discuss with the contractor to see if
this may be a viable solution and then document the reasons it was necessary in the claim file,
if you authorize any testing. Be sure to explain to the adjuster why this test was necessary and
the related costs.

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