Questions
The ones worth asking.
Do I really have rising damp?
Probably not. Condensation is by far the most common cause of damp in British homes, and it is frequently the cheapest to resolve — often ventilation, heating patterns and a couple of targeted changes rather than any damp proofing at all. Penetrating damp from a failed gutter, a cracked render or a roofline detail is the next most common. Genuine rising damp exists, but it is diagnosed far more often than it occurs. That is exactly why the survey comes before the quote.
Why was I quoted four thousand pounds elsewhere?
Usually because the quote was for a chemical damp-proof course and re-plastering — the standard treatment for rising damp — on a wall where rising damp was assumed rather than established. It's the default remedy in this industry, it's expensive, and if the water is actually coming in at the roofline or condensing on a cold wall, it will not work. Get the cause established in writing first. If our findings agree that you need it, you'll have evidence for why.
What does the survey actually involve?
A surveyor inspects the property inside and out — ground levels, rainwater goods, pointing, roofline details, ventilation, construction type and the pattern of the damage. Moisture readings are taken and recorded. Expect access to be needed to the affected rooms and, where relevant, to lofts, cellars and the outside of the building. You receive written findings, readings and photographs within 48 hours.
How quickly can someone come out?
Book directly through the booking page and you'll see live availability — pick a time that suits you and the survey goes ahead then. If you'd rather talk to someone first, call and a member of the team will pick it up.
Do you cover my area?
We cover London, Essex, Kent, Surrey and the Thames Valley — the full list of towns and boroughs is set out above. If you're just outside it, call and ask; the honest answer is quicker than a form.
What else do you do besides damp?
Damp proofing, surveying and diagnostics, condensation and ventilation solutions, remedial plastering, basement waterproofing and structural repairs. Damp is where most people find us, but the underlying discipline is the same: establish the cause, specify the right work, guarantee the result.
What does the guarantee actually cover?
The treated works set out in your written guarantee, for ten years. If that damp returns, we return and put it right at no cost. The guarantee is insurance-backed, so it survives us ceasing to trade, and it transfers with the property if you sell. It's included as standard on every guaranteed job.