Purpose of Damp Inspection
A damp inspection and survey is the first step in diagnosing moisture-related problems in a building. Its aim is to:
*Identify the type of dampness (rising damp, penetrating damp, condensation, or a combination)
*Locate the source of water ingress and contributing defects.
*Assess the extent of damage to walls, plaster, timber, and finishes.
*Recommend the most effective treatment method (e.g., injection cream, slurry, salt-resistant plaster).
Key Stages of a Damp Survey
A.Initial Visual Assessment
Inspect internal and external walls for symptoms such as:
*Damp tide marks
*Peeling paint
*Salt deposits (efflorescence)
*Rotting skirting boards or timber
*Mould patches in corners
*Check building design, location, and exposure to rainfall.
*Note previous repairs, plaster finishes, or coatings.
B. Moisture Measurement
*Use electrical resistance meters to detect damp areas behind plaster.
*Apply carbide testing or gravimetric methods (where possible) for accurate moisture content in masonry.
*Record relative humidity and temperature to rule out condensation.
C. External Examination
*Inspect walls for:
*Defective gutters, downpipes, and drainage
*Cracked render or pointing
*Porous sandcrete or concrete blockwork
*Bridging of DPC level by soil, tiles, or plaster
*Check for water pooling near the foundation or poor ground drainage. D. Internal Investigation
Remove small areas of plaster to expose masonry if necessary.
Inspect for salts (nitrates, chlorides, sulfates) that indicate rising damp.
Evaluate timber skirting, door frames, and floors for wet rot or decay.
E. Documentation & Reporting
Photograph affected areas.
Record all findings systematically.
Provide a written survey report with:
Diagnosis of damp types
Source and extent of dampness
*Recommended treatments (e.g., StopDamp+ injection cream, StopDamp+ slurry, StopDamp+ cement mix)
*Cost and timeline estimates for remediation.
Importance of a Damp Survey
*Correct Diagnosis = Correct Solution
Misdiagnosis leads to wasted money. For example, applying slurry for rising damp without salt-resistant plaster will fail.
*Prevention of Structural Damage
Damp weakens masonry, causes plaster to crumble, and damages finishes.
*Health and Comfort
Damp environments foster mould growth, triggering respiratory problems.
*Adds Value to Property
Professional damp surveys reassure buyers, tenants, and property managers.
Professional Tools Used
*Moisture meters (surface & deep probes)
*Hygrometers (temperature & relative humidity)
*Thermal imaging cameras (to detect hidden leaks and cold bridging)
*Endoscopes (to inspect cavity walls)
*Salts testing kits