UK Homeowners – Damp and Timber Inspections: Why it Pays to Hire a Specialist

Let’s face it, your home is your most valuable asset, an investment that should pay big long-term benefits when you reach retirement age; while the value will appreciate, maintenance is an essential aspect of property ownership. Damp has always been a threat to UK properties and when purchasing a home in London, a damp inspection is a must! Older London properties make good use of timber, which is susceptible to moisture penetration and that starts a reaction that leads to mould and dry rot.

What does a damp survey entail?

At London Damp Specialists, we offer a homebuyer damp survey, a thorough inspection of the building at every level from floor to roof that would reveal any moisture issues. Our certified damp surveyors use thermal imaging and moisture meters that can accurately measure moisture content in plaster and brick and you receive a detailed report the following day.

Timber inspections

All timber structures are closely inspected, looking for woodworm, wet and dry rot; if moisture is present, the surveyor can identify the source and repairs can be scheduled. The internal roof structure is checked; protective coatings can be applied and, in some cases, rafters or joists have to be replaced.

Rising damp

Moist ground means damp will impact the house and with a DPC membrane sandwiched between the lower courses of brickwork. Homes built pre-1980s would probably have a bitumen strip inserted into the brickwork, which stops damp from rising, while newer properties would have a special plastic DPC membrane, made from durable material.

Penetrating damp

Damp can penetrate timber, brickwork, mortar and render, it can come from the roof or the exterior walls and unless you are observant, damp can get a foothold in your home. Blocked guttering can lead to rainwater seeping down the exterior walls and that can lead to penetrating damp, while missing roof tiles will also allow water to enter the internal roof structure, causing a lot of damage.

Condensation

Moisture turns to water, which can damage building materials; there are things you can do to reduce condensation, such as opening kitchen and bathroom windows when taking a hot bath or cooking. Keep the door closed until the moisture is removed, while generating a good airflow is another way to remove condensation.

Accurate analysis

When you commission London Damp Specialists to do a damp survey, you can be sure to receive an accurate report regarding damp and moisture in your home. We would recommend remedial work and the cost of the survey would be deducted from the cost of the repairs.

Buying a property in London

The capital has some of the highest land prices in the country and prior to making aa commitment, have the building surveyed for damp and mould; only then can you be sure that the property is damp-free.

Call us on 020 7458 4864 or fill in the form on this website and let the experts inspect the property on your behalf.