Independent Damp Surveys – A Deep Dive

Damp presents a real danger to London properties, especially in low-lying areas where clay causes moisture retention and if damp is unaddressed, it can cause damage that runs into the thousands. If you are planning to acquire a property in London, you need to be sure that the structure is sound and free from damp, mould and timber rot.

What does an independent damp survey involve?

Our independent damp survey is divided into 3 main types, which are:

• Level 1 – This entails a detailed inspection of external and internal walls, floors and ceilings, specifically looking for signs of damp and mould.
• Level 2 – All of level 1, plus a thorough inspection of timber structures such as roof joists and rafters.
• Level 3 – All of levels 1 & 2, along with the use of humidity testers, thermal imagery, ventilation flow tests, borescope cameras and drone images. A search for wet and dry rot, as well as woodworm, which is a destructive pest that eats timber from the inside.
• Additional lab test on plaster – An extra cost for the lab analysis of up to 10 samples taken from various locations in the house. This is a definitive way to test for moisture in plaster.

At London Damp Specialists, we take great pride in offering a professional service that is above industry standards. We cover all London Boroughs and areas within the M25.

How long does the survey take?

An independent damp survey can be completed in 3-4 hours, depending on the level and accessibility. There is nothing to pay in advance, once the survey is complete and you have the report in your inbox and we will send an invoice. All our surveyor needs is unrestricted access to the property and when it’s finished, you would never know the surveyor had been to your home.

Cutting-edge digital equipment used by damp surveyors

Our PCA independent damp surveyors use state-of-the-art digital devices to accurately measure moisture levels, which include the following:

• Damp meters
• Thermal imagery
• Humidity tester
• Ventilation flow tester
• Drone imagery
• Borescope cameras

Every qualified damp surveyor has all of these devices to assist them in the inspection of London properties, looking for any sign of damp, mould or timber rot.

When do I need an independent damp survey?

If you are thinking of buying a London property, this is the right time to contact London Damp Specialists on 020 7205 4886 or complete the online booking request form on this site and we will be in touch shortly. If you are planning to put your London home on the market, getting a professional damp assessment will reassure potential buyers that the property is free from damp, mould and timber rot.

The other time an independent damp survey is wise is when you notice any of the tell-tale signs of damp; early detection can save you a fortune in damp repairs and damp-proofing treatments. Some London homeowners have their home surveyed on an annual basis, which brings you peace of mind, knowing that the property is structurally sound and free from all forms of damp.