Damp and Mould

There is no single cause of damp. Effective treatment depends on identifying the source of moisture rather than simply addressing the symptoms.

Common causes include:

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common causes of mould growth in UK homes. It often occurs when warm, moisture-laden air comes into contact with cold surfaces such as external walls, windows and ceilings.

Common indicators include:

• Black mould around windows and external walls
• Water droplets on glazing
• Musty smells
• Mould behind furniture
• Damp patches that appear and disappear with the seasons

Penetrating Damp

Penetrating damp occurs when water enters the building fabric from outside.

Common causes include:

• Defective roofs
• Damaged gutters and downpipes
• Cracked render
• Faulty pointing
• Defective window seals
• Blocked wall cavities

Rising Damp

True rising damp is often misdiagnosed. While it can occur in some buildings, particularly older properties with failed damp-proof courses, many issues attributed to rising damp are actually caused by condensation, high external ground levels or building defects.

Plumbing Leaks

Leaking pipes, defective seals and hidden water leaks can create localised dampness and mould growth which may be mistaken for other forms of damp.

Many homeowners are offered expensive damp proofing treatments before a proper investigation has taken place.

Unfortunately, incorrect diagnosis can result in unnecessary work and considerable expense.

We take a whole-building approach, considering:

• The age and construction of the property
• Ventilation levels
• Occupancy patterns
• Heating arrangements
• Building defects
• Moisture readings
• Environmental conditions

By understanding how the building performs as a whole, we can identify the real cause of the problem and recommend the most appropriate remedy.

We will carry out a detailed inspection of the affected areas and the wider property.

The inspection may include:

• Internal and external visual inspection
• Moisture meter testing
• Assessment of ventilation and airflow
• Evaluation of thermal bridging risks
• Inspection of roofs, gutters and external walls
• Review of drainage issues
• Investigation of possible leaks
• Thermal imaging where appropriate

We will explain our findings clearly and answer any questions you may have.

Following the inspection, you will receive a detailed written report which includes:

Identification of the Cause

We explain exactly what type of damp is present and what has caused it.

Photographs

Annotated photographs help illustrate the defects identified during the inspection.

Recommendations

We provide practical advice on how the problem should be addressed, prioritised and monitored.

Repair Guidance

Where remedial works are required, we explain the most appropriate repair approach.

Evidence for Buyers, Sellers and Landlords

Our reports are often used to support property transactions, landlord obligations and discussions with contractors.

A damp issue identified during a property purchase can be concerning. Buyers are often provided with quotations for extensive damp proofing works without a clear explanation of whether the treatment is actually necessary.

An independent damp survey can help:

• Confirm the extent of any problem
• Establish the true cause
• Avoid unnecessary remedial works
• Support price renegotiations where appropriate
• Provide confidence before exchange of contracts

Landlords have a responsibility to investigate reports of damp and mould and take appropriate action where necessary.

Our surveys help landlords:

• Identify the underlying cause
• Understand whether defects are building-related or lifestyle-related
• Demonstrate a professional investigation has been conducted
• Prioritise repairs effectively
• Protect the condition of their property

We carry out damp and mould surveys across:

• Chichester
• Bognor Regis
• Selsey
• Emsworth
• Petersfield
• Waterlooville
• Havant
• Midhurst
• Arundel
• Littlehampton

If your property is outside these areas, please contact us to discuss availability.