Your Guide to Damp Surveys, Timber Reports and Professional Damp Surveyors
At UK Damp Surveyors, we understand that homeowners and property buyers often have questions about damp issues and the survey process. Our team of qualified damp surveyors has compiled this comprehensive guide to answer the most frequently asked questions we receive. With 15 years of experience in the building sector, we’ve encountered virtually every type of damp problem and are here to provide clear, honest advice.
How much does a damp survey cost UK?
The cost of a professional damp survey in the UK typically ranges from £200 to £450, with several factors influencing the price. At UK Damp Surveyors, our comprehensive damp reports start from £240 for an average-sized property.
Damp survey costs vary based on several key factors:
Property Size and Type: Smaller properties like flats or terraced houses generally cost less to survey (£200-£300) Medium-sized semi-detached houses typically range from £250-£350 Larger detached properties or those with complex layouts may cost £350-£450 Period properties often require more detailed assessment, potentially increasing costs
Survey Scope and Depth: Basic damp assessments focusing on specific areas start from around £200 Comprehensive whole-house damp surveys typically range from £240-£350 Combined damp and timber surveys are more extensive and usually cost £280-£450 Specialised surveys for basements or cellars may have different pricing
Geographic Location: London and the Southeast typically have higher survey costs (£280-£450) Other regions generally have more moderate pricing (£200-£350) Remote locations may incur additional travel charges
Report Requirements: Standard reports for homeowner information are included in the base price Mortgage-compliant reports meeting lender requirements are included in our pricing Particularly detailed reports with extensive recommendations may cost more Additional copies or special formatting requirements might incur small extra charges
Surveyor Qualifications: Surveys by PCA-accredited surveyors with CSRT qualifications (like ours) typically cost £240-£350 Less qualified surveyors might charge less but may provide less reliable assessments Surveys by chartered surveyors (RICS) with specialist damp knowledge usually cost more
Urgency and Timing: Standard booking typically has no additional cost. Express or weekend surveys might incur premium charges Same-day emergency assessments, where available, usually cost more
At UK Damp Surveyors, our damp survey costs include:
- Comprehensive on-site assessment by a qualified, PCA-accredited surveyor
- Use of professional moisture meters and thermal imaging equipment
- Detailed written report with photographs and thermal images
- Clear explanations and practical recommendations
- Floor plans highlighting problem areas
- Approximate costs for any necessary remedial work
- Follow-up support to discuss findings and recommendations
We believe in transparent pricing with no hidden costs. When you contact us, we’ll provide a clear quote based on your specific property and requirements. We don’t offer “free” surveys because these are typically sales opportunities rather than objective assessments. Our independent approach ensures you receive genuine value through accurate diagnosis and impartial advice.
It’s worth noting that while the cost of a professional damp survey might seem significant, it represents excellent value when compared to the potential expense of inappropriate or unnecessary damp treatments, which can run into thousands of pounds. A proper survey ensures that any remedial work addresses the true causes of damp problems, potentially saving considerable money in the long term.### What happens in a damp survey?
When you book a damp survey with UK Damp Surveyors, you can expect a structured, thorough process designed to identify any moisture issues affecting your property. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what happens during a professional damp survey:
Arrival and Introduction: Our qualified damp surveyor will arrive at the arranged time, introduce themselves, and briefly discuss any specific concerns you have about the property. They’ll explain the survey process and answer any initial questions before beginning their inspection.
External Inspection: The survey typically begins with a detailed examination of the property’s exterior, as many internal damp problems originate from external defects. The surveyor will walk around the entire perimeter, examining:
The roof condition, guttering, and downpipes Pointing, rendering, and masonry Window and door seals Ground levels and drainage Vegetation near the building External plumbing and water sources
During this external inspection, the surveyor takes photographs and makes detailed notes about any issues that could contribute to damp problems inside.
Internal Room-by-Room Assessment: Moving inside, the surveyor conducts a methodical room-by-room inspection, paying particular attention to:
Ground floor walls, especially those below external ground level Areas adjacent to bathrooms and kitchens Locations where you’ve noticed damp problems Chimney breasts and party walls Areas with poor ventilation
In each room, the surveyor will:
Take systematic moisture meter readings of walls, floors, and ceilings Use thermal imaging cameras to identify hidden damp areas Look for visual signs of damp such as staining, mould, or damaged decorations Check for salt deposits or efflorescence typical of certain damp types Assess ventilation provisions and potential condensation issues Examine any visible timber elements for moisture damage
Concealed Areas Inspection: Where possible and with your permission, the surveyor will also check:
Under floor coverings, particularly near external walls Behind furniture (they may ask to move items for better access) Inside cupboards against external walls Loft spaces for roof leaks or condensation Beneath floorboards if access is available
Data Collection and Analysis: Throughout the survey, the damp surveyor collects data including:
Moisture meter readings from various locations Thermal images of problem areas Humidity and temperature measurements Photographic evidence of visible damp signs Notes on building defects and contributing factors
As they work, the surveyor begins to analyse patterns in the data, forming a professional opinion about the types of damp present and their likely causes.
Discussion of Findings: After completing the inspection, the surveyor will typically discuss their initial findings with you if you’re present. They’ll explain:
The types of damp they’ve identified (rising damp, penetrating damp, condensation, etc.) The likely causes of the damp problems The extent and severity of the issues Potential approaches to resolving the problems
This discussion provides an opportunity to ask questions and gain immediate insights, although the detailed analysis and recommendations will follow in the written report.
Report Preparation: Following the on-site survey, the surveyor returns to the office to analyse all the collected data in detail. They prepare a comprehensive written report that typically includes:
Property details and survey date Methodology used during the inspection Detailed findings with moisture readings Photographs and thermal images Clear explanations of the causes of damp issues Specific recommendations for addressing the problems Approximate costs for necessary remedial work
Report Delivery: Within 2-5 working days, you’ll receive your detailed damp survey report, typically by email. For mortgage applications, we can also provide hard copies by post if required.
Follow-up Support: After receiving the report, you’re welcome to contact the surveyor with any questions or to discuss the findings in more detail. We remain available to provide guidance on implementing the recommendations, whether that involves DIY measures or professional treatments.
Unlike companies that use damp surveys primarily as a sales opportunity, our independent approach ensures that the survey is conducted objectively, with a focus on accurate diagnosis rather than promoting particular treatments or products.### What does a damp survey include?
A professional damp survey includes a comprehensive assessment of your property’s moisture conditions, identifying the presence, type, extent, and causes of any damp problems. While specific elements may vary depending on your property’s characteristics and requirements, a thorough damp survey from UK Damp Surveyors typically includes:
Property Background Review: Information gathering about the property’s age, construction type, and history of damp issues Review of any previous damp treatments or relevant building work Discussion of occupancy patterns, heating habits, and ventilation practices
External Property Assessment: Detailed inspection of the roof, including tiles, flashings, and chimney stacks Examination of rainwater goods (gutters, downpipes, hoppers) Assessment of masonry condition, including pointing and rendering Evaluation of ground levels around the property in relation to the damp proof course Checking drainage conditions and potential water accumulation areas Inspection of external plumbing, overflows, and water outlets
Internal Moisture Assessment: Room-by-room inspection with particular focus on external walls and ground floor areas Systematic moisture meter readings on walls, floors, and ceilings Thermal imaging to detect hidden damp areas not visible to the naked eye Assessment of internal ventilation provisions Checking for condensation issues and associated mould growth Evaluation of internal plumbing and potential leaks Inspection of bathrooms, kitchens, and other high-moisture areas
Specific Damp Investigation: Assessment for rising damp, including salt analysis where necessary Checking for penetrating damp from external defects Evaluation of condensation risks and patterns Investigation of potential bridged damp proof courses Identification of any lateral damp issues in basements or retaining walls Checking for damp related to plumbing leaks or flooding
Related Timber Inspection: Basic assessment of timber elements affected by or at risk from damp conditions Checking floor joists, particularly where they enter walls Examination of window frames and other exposed timber components Note that a full timber survey (checking for woodworm, dry rot, etc.) would be part of a combined damp and timber survey
Analysis and Diagnosis: Professional interpretation of moisture readings and patterns Correlation of external and internal findings to identify true causes Differentiation between active damp issues and residual effects Assessment of the effectiveness of any existing damp proofing measures
Documentation and Reporting: Comprehensive written report detailing all findings Photographic evidence of problem areas Thermal images where relevant Clear identification of different types of damp present Explanation of the causes of each damp issue Floor plans or sketches highlighting affected areas Moisture reading data presented in an understandable format
Recommendations: Detailed proposals for addressing each identified issue Prioritisation of necessary works Specifications for appropriate treatments or repairs Advice on improving ventilation or heating patterns if needed Guidance on maintenance to prevent future damp problems
Cost Estimates: Approximate costs for recommended remedial work Breakdown of different treatment options where applicable
Follow-up Support: Availability to discuss the report and answer questions Guidance on implementing recommendations Advice on selecting contractors for remedial work
Our damp surveys are conducted by qualified surveyors with specific expertise in damp diagnosis, ensuring accurate identification of issues and appropriate recommendations. The resulting report provides you with a clear understanding of your property’s condition and the information needed to address any damp problems effectively.### What does a damp and timber survey involve?
A damp and timber survey is more comprehensive than a standard damp survey, combining a thorough assessment of moisture issues with a detailed inspection of all timber elements in the property. This type of survey is particularly important for older buildings, properties with known damp problems, and those where timber decay is suspected.
The process of a professional damp and timber survey typically involves:
External Property Inspection: Our qualified surveyor begins with a detailed examination of the property’s exterior, as many damp and timber problems originate from external defects. This includes checking:
The roof condition, including tiles, flashings, lead work, and chimney stacks Guttering, downpipes, and drainage systems for leaks or blockages Pointing, rendering, and masonry for cracks or deterioration Window and door frames, particularly timber elements Ground levels in relation to the damp proof course Ventilation provisions, including air bricks for suspended timber floors Signs of previous repairs or alterations
Internal Damp Assessment: Moving inside, the surveyor conducts a methodical room-by-room inspection using specialised equipment:
Calibrated electronic moisture meters to take readings in walls, floors, and ceilings Thermal imaging cameras to detect hidden moisture pockets Hygrometers to measure relative humidity levels Carbide testing in some cases for definitive moisture content analysis
The surveyor looks for visual signs of dampness including staining, salt deposits, mould growth, peeling decorations, and damaged plaster. They pay particular attention to areas prone to damp problems such as chimney breasts, party walls, and north-facing rooms.
Comprehensive Timber Inspection: The timber aspect of the survey involves a thorough examination of all accessible wooden elements:
Lifting carpets and floor coverings where possible to inspect floorboards Removing inspection hatches to access roof timbers Checking timber floor joists, particularly where they enter walls Examining window frames, door frames, skirting boards, and other joinery Looking for evidence of wood-boring insects (woodworm), checking for both historic and active infestations Assessing timbers for dry rot (Serpula lacrymans) and wet rot (Coniophora puteana and other fungi) Measuring moisture content in timbers using specialised meters Testing suspect timbers for soundness and structural integrity
Sub-Floor Investigation: Where properties have suspended timber floors, the surveyor will try to gain access to the sub-floor void to check:
Floor joists and supporting timbers Ventilation conditions in the void Ground conditions beneath the floor Wall plates and other hidden timber elements
Analysis and Diagnosis: Following the physical inspection, our surveyor analyses all the gathered data to determine:
The types of damp present (rising damp, penetrating damp, condensation, etc.) The true causes of the moisture problems The extent and activity status of any timber decay or infestation The structural implications of any identified issues The most appropriate remedial approaches
Comprehensive Report: After completing their analysis, the surveyor prepares a detailed report typically including:
Property details and survey date Methodology used during the inspection Detailed findings with moisture readings and timber assessments Photographs of problem areas and thermal images where relevant Diagrams or floor plans highlighting affected areas Clear explanations of all damp and timber issues identified The relationship between damp conditions and timber problems Specific recommendations for addressing each issue Prioritisation of necessary works Approximate costs for remedial treatments Ongoing maintenance advice to prevent future problems
Our damp and timber survey reports are written in clear, straightforward language, avoiding unnecessary technical jargon while still providing the comprehensive information needed by homeowners, property buyers, and mortgage lenders. The report gives you a complete understanding of your property’s condition and provides a detailed roadmap for addressing any issues identified.
Frequently Asked Questions About Damp Surveys
A damp survey is a professional assessment carried out by a qualified damp surveyor to identify, diagnose and document moisture-related issues in a property. Unlike general building surveys, a damp survey specifically focuses on moisture problems, their causes, and appropriate solutions.
During a damp survey, the surveyor conducts a methodical examination of both the exterior and interior of your property, paying particular attention to areas prone to dampness. This includes checking walls, floors, ceilings, basements, roof spaces, and any other areas where moisture issues might be present. The surveyor uses specialised equipment including moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to detect damp that may not be visible to the naked eye.
A proper damp survey doesn’t just identify symptoms but determines the true underlying causes. For example, rather than simply noting “damp patches on the wall,” a professional damp surveyor will establish whether these are caused by condensation, penetrating damp from defective guttering, rising damp, or plumbing leaks. This accurate diagnosis is crucial for recommending appropriate and effective solutions rather than unnecessary or inappropriate treatments.
Following the on-site inspection, you’ll receive a detailed written report documenting the findings, explaining the causes of any damp problems, and providing specific recommendations for addressing them. These reports are particularly valuable when buying or selling properties, dealing with persistent damp issues, or satisfying mortgage lender requirements.
At UK Damp Surveyors, our independent damp surveys provide objective assessments rather than sales opportunities for damp proofing treatments. This ensures you receive honest advice based on the genuine needs of your property.
The cost of a damp survey in the UK typically ranges from £200-£350, depending on the property size, location, and the type of survey required. At UK Damp Surveyors, our comprehensive damp and timber reports start from £240 for an average-sized property.
Several factors influence the cost of a professional damp survey:
Property size and complexity – larger properties naturally take longer to survey thoroughly and will cost more.
Type of survey required – a focused survey of a specific area will cost less than a whole-house assessment.
Accessibility – properties with difficult-to-access areas such as cellars or roof spaces may incur additional charges.
Location – surveys in central London and other major cities may cost more than those in other regions.
Report requirements – comprehensive reports for mortgage lenders will be more detailed and may cost more than basic damp assessments.
We believe in transparent pricing with no hidden charges. When you contact us, we’ll provide a clear quote based on your specific requirements. Unlike companies that offer “free” surveys (which are often just sales opportunities), our independent damp surveys provide genuine value through accurate diagnosis and impartial advice.
When choosing a damp surveyor, it’s important to verify their qualifications and professional accreditations. Reputable damp surveyors should hold recognised industry qualifications such as:
Certificated Surveyor in Remedial Treatment (CSRT) – this comprehensive qualification covers the diagnosis and treatment of damp, timber decay, and wood-boring insects.
Certificated Surveyor of Timber and Dampness in Buildings (CSTDB) – similar to CSRT, focusing specifically on timber and damp issues.
Property Care Association (PCA) membership – indicates adherence to industry standards and best practices.
All our damp surveyors at UK Damp Surveyors hold the CSRT qualification and are members of the Property Care Association. This ensures they have undergone rigorous training and assessment in diagnosing damp problems and recommending appropriate treatments. Our surveyors also regularly undertake continuing professional development to stay current with the latest research and techniques in damp diagnosis and treatment.
Be wary of companies that send salespeople rather than qualified surveyors to assess your property. A genuine qualification in damp surveying requires significant training and experience, not just a brief induction course.
The time required to complete a thorough damp survey depends on the size and complexity of your property. For an average three-bedroom house, a comprehensive damp and timber survey typically takes 2-3 hours to complete.
During this time, our damp surveyor will:
Examine the exterior of the property to identify potential causes of damp ingress (30-45 minutes).
Conduct a room-by-room internal inspection using moisture meters and thermal imaging (1-2 hours).
Lift floor coverings where necessary to inspect timbers beneath.
Check roof spaces and other accessible areas.
Take detailed notes and photographs to document findings.
Discuss initial observations with you, if you’re present during the survey.
For larger properties or those with extensive issues, the survey may take longer. Similarly, properties with limited access to certain areas may require additional time for thorough inspection.
Following the on-site survey, our surveyors typically spend 1-2 hours analysing the findings and preparing a comprehensive report, which is delivered to you within 2-5 working days.
A proper damp survey should never be rushed – be wary of surveyors who spend only 20-30 minutes in your property, as they’re unlikely to conduct a thorough assessment.
A professional damp survey involves a systematic, thorough assessment of your property’s condition, focusing specifically on moisture-related issues. At UK Damp Surveyors, our comprehensive damp survey process typically includes the following stages:
External Assessment: The survey begins with a detailed examination of your property’s exterior, as many internal damp problems originate from external defects. Our damp surveyor will check:
Roof condition, including tiles, flashings, and chimney stacks Guttering and downpipes for leaks, blockages, or incorrect positioning Pointing and rendering for cracks or deterioration Window and door seals for potential water entry points Ground levels around the property, particularly in relation to the damp proof course Drainage conditions and potential standing water issues Nearby trees or vegetation that might affect the property
Internal Inspection: Moving inside, our damp surveyor conducts a methodical room-by-room assessment, paying particular attention to ground floor walls, basements, areas adjacent to bathrooms and kitchens, and any locations where you’ve noticed damp problems. The surveyor will:
Use calibrated electronic moisture meters to take readings throughout the property Deploy thermal imaging cameras to identify hidden damp patches and cold spots Check for visual signs of dampness including staining, mould growth, peeling wallpaper, or damaged plaster Assess internal ventilation and heating patterns that might contribute to condensation Examine areas behind furniture and under floor coverings where possible Look for evidence of previous damp treatments or repairs
Timber Assessment: As part of a comprehensive damp survey, the surveyor will also check accessible timber elements for moisture-related damage:
Examining floor joists, especially where they enter walls Inspecting window frames and door frames for decay Checking roof timbers for signs of leaks or condensation Looking for evidence of wood-boring insects or fungal decay
Analysis and Diagnosis: Rather than rushing to conclusions, our surveyor will carefully analyse all the data collected, considering:
The pattern and distribution of moisture readings The age and construction of the property The property’s location and exposure to weather Your heating and ventilation habits Previous treatments or alterations to the building
This thorough analysis ensures we identify the true causes of damp problems, not just their symptoms. For example, what might initially appear to be rising damp could actually be condensation or a bridged damp proof course due to high external ground levels.
Report Preparation: Following the survey, our damp surveyor will prepare a detailed written report, typically including:
Property details and survey date Methodology used during the survey Detailed findings with moisture readings Photographs of problem areas Thermal images where relevant Clear explanation of the causes of any damp issues Specific recommendations for addressing the problems Approximate costs for any necessary remedial work Floor plans or sketches highlighting affected areas
The report is written in clear, straightforward language, avoiding unnecessary technical jargon. We aim to provide a document that is equally useful to homeowners, property buyers, and mortgage lenders, giving you a complete understanding of your property’s condition and the actions needed to resolve any damp issues identified.
To ensure our damp surveyors can conduct a thorough assessment of your property, we recommend some simple preparations:
Provide access to all areas: Ensure the surveyor can access all parts of the property, including basements, attics, under-floor spaces, and outbuildings. Clear any obstacles that might prevent access to walls or corners.
Move furniture where possible: While our surveyors can work around furniture, moving larger items away from external walls helps them conduct a more thorough inspection. Don’t worry if you can’t move everything – our surveyors understand this and will work with what’s possible.
Gather relevant information: Collect any information about previous damp issues or treatments, including any paperwork from previous surveys or remedial work. Knowledge of the property’s age and construction type is also helpful.
Note areas of concern: Make a note of any specific areas where you’ve noticed damp problems, musty smells, or visible mould so you can point these out to the surveyor.
Ensure someone can be present: While not absolutely necessary, it’s helpful if you or someone familiar with the property can be present during the survey to answer questions and receive initial feedback.
Keep pets secure: If you have pets, consider keeping them secured in a separate room during the survey for their comfort and to allow the surveyor to work unimpeded.
No special cleaning or preparations beyond these basics are necessary – in fact, it’s better for the surveyor to see the property in its normal condition to accurately assess any moisture issues.
While there’s some overlap between damp surveys and building surveys, they serve different purposes and vary in their depth and focus:
Damp Survey:
- Focuses specifically on moisture-related issues and their causes
- Conducted by specialists in damp diagnosis and treatment
- Uses specialised equipment like calibrated moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras
- Provides detailed analysis of all types of damp problems
- Includes specific recommendations for remedial treatments
- Typically takes 2-3 hours for an average property
- Reports are usually 10-15 pages with detailed moisture readings and photographs
- Often requested by mortgage lenders when damp issues are suspected
Building Survey (formerly called a Structural Survey):
- Covers the overall condition of the entire property including structural issues
- Conducted by chartered surveyors (RICS qualified)
- More general in scope, checking everything from foundations to roof
- Less detailed on specific damp issues, often recommending a specialist damp survey if problems are suspected
- Provides a broader assessment of the property’s condition and value
- Typically takes 3-4 hours for an average property
- Reports are more comprehensive but less focused on specific damp issues
- Usually commissioned by buyers before purchasing a property
A building surveyor may identify potential damp issues during their inspection, but they’ll often recommend a specialist damp survey for a more detailed assessment if significant moisture problems are suspected. At UK Damp Surveyors, we regularly work with building surveyors and mortgage lenders to provide the specialist damp assessments they recommend.
The responsibility for paying for a damp survey during a property purchase can vary depending on the circumstances:
Buyer-initiated surveys: If you’re buying a property and choose to commission a damp survey as part of your due diligence, you would typically pay for this survey. Many buyers consider this a worthwhile investment to avoid unexpected costs after purchase.
Mortgage lender requirements: If your mortgage valuation survey identifies potential damp issues and the lender requires a specialist damp report before approving your mortgage, this cost usually falls to the buyer. However, in some cases, you might negotiate with the seller to share or cover this cost, especially if significant issues are found.
Seller pre-emptive surveys: Some sellers choose to commission a damp survey before listing their property to identify and address any issues proactively. In this case, the seller pays for the survey.
Negotiated arrangements: In some cases, especially if the initial survey reveals potentially significant damp issues, the buyer and seller might agree to share the cost of a more detailed damp survey as part of the purchase negotiations.
If you’re buying a property and a damp survey reveals significant issues, you can use this information to:
- Renegotiate the purchase price to reflect the cost of necessary repairs
- Request that the seller completes the repairs before completion
- Decide whether to proceed with the purchase based on a full understanding of the property’s condition
At UK Damp Surveyors, we provide clear, detailed reports that can be used effectively in purchase negotiations, helping buyers and sellers reach fair agreements based on accurate information about the property’s condition.
A professional damp survey report should be comprehensive, clear, and actionable. Our damp survey reports at UK Damp Surveyors typically include:
Executive summary: A clear overview of the key findings and recommendations, highlighting the most significant issues identified.
Property details: Information about the property surveyed, including address, construction type, approximate age, and the date of the survey.
Methodology: An explanation of the survey methods used, including the types of equipment employed (moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, etc.).
Detailed findings: Room-by-room or area-by-area assessment of moisture conditions, including:
- Moisture meter readings with reference to normal background levels
- Description of visible damp signs (staining, mould, damaged plaster, etc.)
- Identification of different types of damp present (rising damp, penetrating damp, condensation, etc.)
- Assessment of any timber issues related to damp (rot, woodworm, etc.)
Photographic evidence: Clear photographs of problem areas, often including thermal images showing moisture patterns not visible to the naked eye.
Analysis of causes: Detailed explanation of the underlying causes of any damp issues identified, not just the symptoms.
Floor plans or sketches: Diagrams showing the layout of the property with problem areas clearly marked.
Recommendations: Specific, practical recommendations for addressing the issues identified, which might include:
- Repairs to external defects (guttering, pointing, etc.)
- Improvements to ventilation or heating
- Damp proofing treatments where genuinely necessary
- Timber treatments or repairs
Cost estimates: Approximate costs for any recommended remedial work to help you budget for necessary repairs.
Glossary of terms: Explanation of technical terms used in the report to ensure you fully understand the findings.
Our reports are written in clear, straightforward language without unnecessary jargon, making them accessible to homeowners, buyers, and mortgage lenders alike. A good damp survey report should provide you with all the information you need to make informed decisions about addressing any damp issues identified.
At UK Damp Surveyors, we understand that damp issues can be concerning and that property purchase timelines are often tight. We pride ourselves on our responsive service and can typically arrange a damp survey within 2-5 working days of your initial contact, depending on your location and our current workload.
For urgent cases, such as mortgage-dependent property purchases with impending completion dates, we often have some flexibility to accommodate more immediate appointments. Simply let us know when you contact us that your situation is time-sensitive, and we’ll do our best to prioritise your survey.
After conducting the on-site survey, we aim to deliver your comprehensive damp report within 2-5 working days, significantly faster than many competitors who may take weeks to provide their findings. This quick turnaround helps you address any issues promptly or proceed with property purchases without unnecessary delays.
To book a damp survey or discuss your specific requirements, you can:
- Call us directly on 0800 123 4567
- Complete our online booking form
- Email us at info@ukdampsurveyors.co.uk
We serve locations throughout the UK, with local surveyors familiar with the specific damp issues common in different regions and property types.
Once our damp surveyor has completed the on-site inspection, here’s what you can expect:
Report preparation: Our surveyor will analyse all the data collected during the inspection, including moisture readings, photographs, and notes. They’ll prepare a comprehensive report detailing their findings and recommendations, typically within 2-5 working days.
Report delivery: You’ll receive your damp survey report by email in PDF format. For mortgage applications, we can also send a hard copy by post if required. The report will include all our findings, photographic evidence, and detailed recommendations.
Follow-up consultation: After you’ve had time to review the report, we’re available to discuss the findings and answer any questions you might have. This consultation can be by phone or email, depending on your preference.
Action planning: Based on the recommendations in the report, you can decide how to proceed. Options might include:
- Arranging for recommended repairs or treatments
- Using the report in property purchase negotiations
- Submitting the report to your mortgage lender
- Getting quotes from contractors for any necessary work
Implementation guidance: If you decide to proceed with remedial work, we can provide specifications for contractors or recommend trusted specialists from our network. We can also review quotes from other contractors to ensure they align with our recommendations.
Ongoing support: We remain available to provide guidance throughout the remedial process, ensuring that the work completed effectively addresses the issues identified in our survey.
Unlike companies that use damp surveys primarily as a sales tool for their own treatments, our independent approach means our involvement doesn’t end with selling you a solution. We’re committed to ensuring you have all the information and support you need to effectively resolve any damp issues identified, whether that involves simple DIY measures or more extensive professional treatments.
While homeowners can certainly conduct basic checks for visible signs of damp, a professional damp survey involves specialised equipment, technical knowledge, and experienced interpretation that most DIY inspections cannot match.
What you can do yourself:
- Check for visible signs of damp such as staining, mould growth, or peeling wallpaper
- Feel walls for dampness or cold spots
- Look for external issues like damaged guttering, cracked rendering, or high ground levels
- Monitor condensation on windows and in bathrooms/kitchens
- Use basic moisture meters available from DIY stores (though these provide limited information)
Why professional damp surveys are different:
- Professional surveyors use calibrated moisture meters that provide accurate, quantifiable readings
- Thermal imaging cameras can detect hidden damp not visible to the naked eye
- Experienced surveyors can distinguish between different types of damp that may look similar
- Professionals understand building construction and how moisture moves through different materials
- A qualified surveyor can identify the true causes of damp, not just the symptoms
- Professional reports are accepted by mortgage lenders and insurance companies
If you’re considering buying a property or dealing with persistent damp issues, a professional damp survey is a worthwhile investment. The cost of a survey (typically £200-£350) is far less than the potential expense of addressing misdiagnosed damp problems or discovering serious issues after purchasing a property.
For minor or localised damp issues, a DIY assessment might be sufficient to identify simple solutions. However, for comprehensive understanding of more complex damp problems, mortgage applications, or property purchases, a professional damp survey is strongly recommended.
Several situations might indicate that a professional damp survey would be beneficial:
When buying a property:
- The mortgage valuation survey mentions potential damp issues
- The building survey (formerly known as a structural survey) recommends a specialist damp assessment
- You notice damp patches, mould, or musty smells during viewings
- The property is older (pre-1930s) and may not have a modern damp proof course
- There are visible signs of remedial damp proofing work that you want to verify
For existing properties:
- Persistent damp patches on walls or ceilings that don’t dry out
- Recurring black mould growth, particularly in corners or behind furniture
- Peeling wallpaper or bubbling paint
- Crumbling or salt-stained plaster near the base of ground floor walls
- Musty smells that persist despite ventilation
- Timber floors that feel springy or show signs of decay
- Previous damp treatments that don’t seem to have resolved the issues
For mortgage or insurance purposes:
- Your mortgage lender requires a specialist damp report
- You’re applying for a renovation loan and need to document the property’s condition
- Your insurance company requests an assessment following a water damage claim
If you’re unsure whether you need a professional damp survey, we’re happy to discuss your specific situation and concerns. Many damp issues can worsen over time if not properly addressed, so early assessment by a qualified surveyor can save considerable expense and disruption in the long run.
There’s considerable debate in the building industry about rising damp, with some claiming it’s largely a myth used to sell unnecessary damp proofing treatments. The truth lies somewhere in between these extremes.
What is rising damp? Rising damp is the vertical movement of groundwater up through the porous structure of a wall by capillary action, drawing moisture and ground salts upward. It typically affects ground floor walls and is often characterised by tide marks, salt deposits, and damaged plaster up to about 1 metre in height.
The scientific perspective: Scientific research confirms that capillary rise in building materials is a real physical phenomenon. However, in practice, genuine rising damp is less common than often claimed by some damp proofing companies. Many cases diagnosed as “rising damp” are actually other forms of damp such as condensation, penetrating damp from defective guttering, or bridging of an existing damp proof course by high external ground levels.
Our balanced approach: At UK Damp Surveyors, we take an evidence-based approach to damp diagnosis:
- We use multiple diagnostic methods, not just moisture meter readings
- We consider all possible causes of damp before concluding rising damp is present
- We look for specific indicators including hygroscopic salt deposits and characteristic moisture profiles
- We recommend chemical damp proof courses only when genuinely necessary and appropriate
In our experience, true rising damp does exist but is significantly less common than often claimed. Many properties diagnosed with rising damp by sales-focused companies actually suffer from other moisture problems that require different solutions. Our independent surveys ensure you receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate recommendations, potentially saving thousands of pounds on unnecessary treatments.
A damp survey report provides a snapshot of your property’s condition at the time of inspection. While there’s no official expiration date, several factors influence how long the findings remain relevant:
For mortgage applications: Most mortgage lenders consider damp survey reports valid for 3-6 months for lending purposes. After this period, they may request an updated assessment, particularly if the property has been unoccupied or if there have been significant weather events.
For general property assessment: For your own information about your property’s condition, a damp survey report remains useful as a reference point for 1-2 years, assuming no significant changes to the property or surrounding environment.
Factors that might reduce the validity period:
- Major building works or alterations to the property
- Changes to surrounding properties or landscape that affect drainage
- Weather events such as flooding or prolonged heavy rainfall
- Changes in occupancy or heating patterns
- Development of new damp symptoms not present during the original survey
If you notice new damp issues or if your circumstances change significantly after having a survey, it may be worth considering a follow-up assessment. For properties with ongoing monitoring requirements, we can arrange periodic reassessments to track changes over time.
For properties that have undergone remedial damp proofing work, we recommend a follow-up assessment after 6-12 months to verify the effectiveness of the treatments. This is particularly important if the work was completed by a third-party contractor based on our recommendations.