At London Damp Surveys, we have designed a thorough damp inspection that covers everything from the ground to the roof. If there is damp in the property, we will find it and we use the very latest tech when surveying for damp in a building. Older London houses can be riddled with damp and should the seller wish, they can conceal the major signs of damp and mould, which won’t reveal itself until you are the owner and repairs could cost thousands of pounds.
Our surveyors have numerous accreditations that certify their expertise and using state-of-the-art tools and equipment, a very accurate inspection can be carried out in a few hours.
Equipment includes the following:
- Thermal imagery
- Moisture meters
- Hygrometers
- Endoscopic cameras
- Drone imagery
- Telescopic camera poles
- Hi-res images and video
The client report is usually sent via email and includes still images and perhaps a short video clip, which is professionally presented in an easy-to-understand way.
Timber inspection
The pre-purchase survey includes a thorough inspection of floorboards, joists and rafters; all timber structures are inspected for damp, mould, woodworm and timber rot. If preservative coatings are used, timber roof components will not be damaged by insect infestation, such as woodworm. Damaged sections might have to be replaced, which is a costly repair. Door and window frames are prime locations for penetrating damp; we inspect all frames and sills, ensuring there is nothing concealed.
Damp proof course
Every London building would have a damp proof course just above ground level and this prevents moisture from crossing the membrane barrier. We might recommend using an injectable DPC, which is an effective way to keep rising damp at bay, which is, of course, essential. We examine the exterior walls at ground level to ensure no moisture is crossing the DPC. It can happen that ground movement tears the DPC strip, allowing moisture to rise; using a capillary action much like paper soaks up water.
Roof inspection
The most important component of every structure, the roof has to endure the harsh UK climate and leaks can be expensive; a detailed inspection of the roof includes checking that guttering and downpipes are free from obstruction, a blockage can cause gallons of rainwater running down the exterior walls. The loft provides the surveyor access to roof joists and rafters, using an endoscopic camera, the surveyor can inspect those dark corners, where penetrating damp may be lurking. Woodworm is a very real threat in London, with two beetle species that burrow into wood to lay their eggs and this quickly leads to decaying pulp. Tell-tale signs include lots of small holes with tiny dust mounds close by, the eggs are a creamy white in colour; if you see signs of woodworm, contact us and we can arrange for a surveyor to carry out a thorough damp survey.
Interior walls, ceiling and floors
A close inspection will reveal and moisture issues, we can also do lab analysis on plaster samples to get an accurate reading on moisture content. Damp patches, tidal marks, peeling wallpaper and bubbling paint are all tell-tale signs of excessive moisture.
At London Damp Surveys, we pride ourselves in a prompt and professional service and we cover all areas of London; call us on 0207 305 5997 anytime and get the ball rolling.
