A common issue on surveys is damp
One of the most common issues we find while performing inspections on residential properties, is damp.
Dampness in a house can be caused by various factors, and it’s important to identify and address these to prevent further issues. Dampness can not only be detrimental to the integrity of a building, and be a health and safety risk, but it can also impact mortgaegabilty as repair costs and the inconvenience of the work can be significant.
It is important to ascertain the type of damp, to understand both the cause and its implications. Not all damp is created equally, some problems can be simply resolved, for example by improving ventilation, whereas other form of dampness will require more extensive investigation and remedial works to resolve.
Here are some of the main causes of damp in a house:
1. Condensation: One of the most common causes of dampness is condensation. It occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with cooler surfaces such as windows, walls, or ceilings. Insufficient ventilation and/or insulation can lead to excessive condensation and the growth of mould and mildew.
2. Penetrating Damp: Penetrating damp occurs when moisture enters the building through external walls due to defects such as cracks, damaged roof tiles, faulty guttering, or porous masonry. The water then spreads horizontally, causing dampness on internal walls and ceilings.
3. Leaks: Water leaks from pipes, roofs, windows, or other sources can result in dampness. Even small, unnoticed leaks can cause significant damage over time, leading to damp patches on walls or ceilings. Leaks should be promptly repaired to prevent further moisture ingress.
4. Flooding: Severe weather events or plumbing accidents resulting in flooding can introduce excessive moisture into a house. If not addressed promptly and the affected areas thoroughly dried, it can lead to long-term damp problems and potential mould growth.
What should I do if I discover damp?
Consulting a professional, such as a building surveyor or a damp specialist, can help diagnose the underlying issues and provide guidance on effective solutions.
At Avery, our surveyors are currently completely additional qualifications and will soon be able to offer specialist, independent damp and timber reports.
If you require any survey or valuation services, then please get in touch. All of our surveyors are RICS registered and will answer any questions you may have about your report.
You can call our head office on 0330 088 5040 or contact us via the website: contact us
