Professional surveyors carry out damp surveys in order to identify existing cases of damp within a building. They are often combined with timber inspections to form a damp and timber survey.

These investigations aim to locate potential issues such as wet and dry rot or woodworm infestations, as well as damp.

In this article, we take a look at what a damp and timber survey involves and explain when you might need one.

What Is a Damp Survey?

Damp surveys are independent reports compiled by damp specialists after a thorough inspection of a property.

Carried out as part of a damp and timber survey, the report highlights any structural issues, causes of damp or rot, and more. A standard damp and timber survey aims to identify any of the following:

● Condensation

● Wet and dry rot

● Rising damp

● Penetrating damp

● Woodworm infestations and other pests

A damp and timber survey identifies any existing issues and potential problems that may arise in the future, before providing recommendations for treatment, repair, or prevention.

When Do I Need a Damp and Timber Survey?

If you’re worried that your home’s timbers may be contracting rot or that penetrating damp is getting into the walls, then a damp and timber survey is the best course of action. Damp Surveyors will identify and isolate existing problems, and make recommendations for prevention and repair.

Prospective home buyers or property investors should always have a damp and timber survey carried out before they make a purchase.

In fact, the vast majority of mortgage lenders will ask for a damp survey to be carried out before they loan any money, and surveys are often carried out as part of a wider homebuyer’s survey or building survey.

It’s an excellent way to catch any existing problems, giving you the opportunity to negotiate repairs or better prices with the seller, while ensuring you’re not sprung with hefty repair costs after you’ve made a purchase.

How Long Does a Damp and Timber Survey Take?

The length of time a damp and timber survey takes to be completed depends on the size of the property and the extent of any existing damage.

Other factors include the age of the building and how accessible its timbers are. If floorboards need to be removed, for example, to check for signs of an infestation or hidden damp, then surveys take longer to complete.

In most cases, a thorough damp and timber survey takes no more than a few hours, and it’s rare for a survey to take up a whole day. Once surveyors have collected the data and photographs they need, they compile a report before presenting you with their findings and recommendations at a later date.

Get A Damp and Timber Survey

For an impartial discussion about your damp concern or damp surveys, please contact our friendly team on 01765 804050 or fill in our online contact form. Our experienced damp proofing professionals will be on hand with expert advice tailored to resolve your problem.

 Image courtesy: Nick Youngson