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Damp, moisture & mould investigations
Damp is a symptom. The investigation sets out the likely cause and the remedial approach the evidence supports, with no damp-proofing to sell you afterwards.
The problem
Most damp and mould in Yorkshire homes comes from one of a few causes: condensation, rain getting in through walls or roofs, plumbing leaks, raised ground levels or bridged cavities, and occasionally rising damp. They can look alike on a wall and need very different remedies.
A wrong diagnosis is expensive. Chemical injection does not address condensation, and tanking a wall can move moisture elsewhere. Mould tends to return if the conditions that caused it are unchanged.
If you rent your home and have damp or mould, report it to your landlord in writing first. They are responsible for dealing with it. An independent report can help if the problem isn't resolved.
What I check
Inside
Room temperature and humidity, surface temperatures and dew point, thermal imaging of cold areas, the pattern and height of staining, salts and the condition of finishes.
Outside
Pointing, render, rainwater goods, ground and path levels relative to the damp-proof course, airbricks, roof coverings and flashings, as visible from ground level or safe access.
The building
Wall construction, insulation, alterations, and how the home is heated and ventilated.
Testing where agreed
Masonry samples analysed for moisture content, and temperature and humidity logging where the cause depends on how the home is used. Any sampling is agreed with you first.
On site
Moisture readings being taken on a wall
Surveying and moisture diagnostic equipment
Your report
After the visit you receive a written report with photographs and readings, covering:
- the likely cause of each damp or mould area, and the evidence for that opinion
- the priority of each item
- the recommended remedial approach, in a sensible order, so contractors can quote on a like-for-like basis
- any further investigation or specialist input that is advisable
The diagnosis draws on experience of both building and remediation, so a problem can be traced back to where it started: design, workmanship, or the way the building is used.
The approach follows the principles of BS 5250:2021, the British Standard for managing moisture in buildings, and recognised guidance for traditional buildings.
Scope & limitations
What the inspection does and does not cover
- Where the cause cannot be confirmed from a non-invasive inspection, the report says so and sets out what further investigation would resolve it.
- The inspection is visual and non-invasive unless intrusive investigation or testing is agreed in writing beforehand.
- Only areas that are safely accessible on the day are inspected. Concealed, covered or inaccessible parts are not inspected, and the report says where access was limited.
- Gas, electrical and drainage installations are not tested. Where a specialist test is advisable, the report says so.
- Any costs given are indicative ranges for budgeting and prioritising. They are not quotations, and contractors' prices will vary.
- Opinions are given within my professional competence as a construction professional, based on the evidence available at the time of inspection.
Full scope, exclusions and fee are set out in the terms of engagement agreed before every instruction.
Had a free damp survey?
Send me the report and quote you were given. I can review whether the diagnosis is supported by the evidence before you commit to the work.