5 proven strategies when damp is found in the home

It takes a lot of hard toil and often years of saving before anyone can be able to become a homeowner. Often in London, owing to its prohibitive prices, buying a flat of some kind becomes the only affordable option. There is nothing wrong with this, and it should be enjoyed with the same pride as someone lucky enough to be able to afford a mansion. Both become palaces for those who enjoy living in them, and size isn’t everything, as the saying goes.

However, something all properties and homes have in common is that it is vital to carry out maintenance on them so that they retain their value and remain comfortable and safe to live in. Some older properties in the capital, often converted ones, are likely to be of older vintage, having previously served as large family homes. Here are 5 proven strategies to be followed whenever damp is found in the home, as confirmed by independent damp surveys.

1. Getting the right advice, which can be provided after booking an appointment with a PCA independent damp surveyor like we provide at London Damp Specialists, is a great start, as they will quickly identify that it could have been caused by leaking pipes, faulty guttering, poor drainage, or rising damp from the ground. Fixing cracked roof tiles, unblocking gutters, or repairing leaking plumbing will stop the problem from worsening.
2. Often, dampness and moisture are caused by poor ventilation in a property, especially in the winter months when keeping warm is a priority. Installing extractor fans, using dehumidifiers, or adding trickle vents to windows helps reduce humidity levels to stop condensation from building up. Keeping air bricks unblocked is another way to significantly cut down on condensation-related damp.
3. Damp found on homebuyers survey is a phrase nobody wants to read when they are about to sign on the dotted line. However, there are ways to sort out such issues, through the installation of modern-day damp-proof solutions or membranes to basement flats, with chemical treatments in walls creating an effective barrier against moisture. Tanking systems are also known for their proven efficiency.
4. Repairs and replacement to affected areas might cost money, but the work is more than worthwhile in the long run. Plaster, skirting boards, or flooring may need to be removed and replaced, with anti-mould paints and sealants can be applied to prevent spores from reappearing on walls and ceilings.
5. The best practices and advice will be provided by independent damp surveyors whose job it is to help their clients. Regular maintenance will be spoken about as well as the need to check roofing, keep gutters clear, and ensure drains are functional, which helps prevent damp from returning. Routine inspections by damp specialists can catch issues early before they escalate into structural damage or health hazards like mould growth.

A call to us on 020 7205 4886 can arrange a speedy appointment so that any property owner concerned about damp in their home receives peace of mind.