Damp survey

A damp survey is a professional assessment of a property to identify any problems with moisture or dampness. It is typically carried out by a qualified surveyor who will inspect the property both internally and externally, looking for signs of damp such as:

• Visible mould or mildew
• Water stains on walls or ceilings
• Crumbling plaster or peeling paint
• A musty smell
• Damp floorboards

The surveyor will also use moisture meters to measure the moisture content of the walls and floorboards.

There are three main types of damp:

• Rising damp: This is caused by groundwater rising up through the walls of a property. It is most common in older properties that do not have a damp-proof course.
• Penetrating damp: This is caused by water ingress from outside, such as from a leaking roof or cracked wall.
• Condensation damp: This is caused by excess moisture in the air, which can be caused by poor ventilation, drying clothes indoors, or having a lot of plants in the home.

A damp survey will identify the type of damp that is affecting the property and the cause of the problem. The surveyor will then be able to recommend the best course of action to treat the damp and prevent it from returning.

If you are concerned that your property may have a damp problem, it is important to get a damp survey carried out as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment of damp can help to prevent it from causing more serious problems, such as structural damage and health problems.