Frequently Asked Questions

Rising damp is a type of moisture that moves upward from the ground through brick and masonry via capillary action. This typically happens when a damp proof course is absent, damaged, or bridged. Older homes are especially susceptible to rising damp because of their age and construction techniques. At RI Building Surveying, we frequently detect rising damp during our damp inspections and offer straightforward advice on the best long-term remedy.

Rising damp is a type of moisture that moves upward from the ground through brick and masonry via capillary action. This typically happens when a damp proof course is absent, damaged, or bridged. Older homes are especially susceptible to rising damp because of their age and construction techniques. At RI Building Surveying, we frequently detect rising damp during our damp inspections and offer straightforward advice on the best long-term remedy.

Rising damp is a type of moisture that moves upward from the ground through brick and masonry via capillary action. This typically happens when a damp proof course is absent, damaged, or bridged. Older homes are especially susceptible to rising damp because of their age and construction techniques. At RI Building Surveying, we frequently detect rising damp during our damp inspections and offer straightforward advice on the best long-term remedy.

Rising damp is a type of moisture that moves upward from the ground through brick and masonry via capillary action. This typically happens when a damp proof course is absent, damaged, or bridged. Older homes are especially susceptible to rising damp because of their age and construction techniques. At RI Building Surveying, we frequently detect rising damp during our damp inspections and offer straightforward advice on the best long-term remedy.

Rising damp is a type of moisture that moves upward from the ground through brick and masonry via capillary action. This typically happens when a damp proof course is absent, damaged, or bridged. Older homes are especially susceptible to rising damp because of their age and construction techniques. At RI Building Surveying, we frequently detect rising damp during our damp inspections and offer straightforward advice on the best long-term remedy.

Common indicators of rising damp include tide marks on interior walls, crumbling or blistered plaster, peeling wallpaper, and rotten or damaged skirting boards. A musty odour near ground-level walls may also be apparent. These symptoms generally intensify if not addressed. RI Building Surveying provides damp surveys to verify the presence of rising damp and determine its cause.

Rising damp originates from the ground, whereas condensation results from excess moisture in the air, and penetrating damp enters through walls or roofs. Rising damp typically affects the lower sections of walls, leaving salt deposits and tide marks. Misdiagnosis is common, so professional assessment is crucial. At RI Building Surveying, our damp surveys aim to accurately identify the moisture source before advising any treatment.

Yes, rising damp is more frequently found in older homes, especially those constructed before modern damp-proof courses became standard. Some properties may never have had a damp-proof course installed, while others have systems that have deteriorated over time. RI Building Surveying frequently collaborates with homeowners of older properties, conducting damp surveys to determine the presence of rising damp and necessary remedial work. Even newly built properties can experience damp issues.

Accurate diagnosis requires inspecting internal walls, assessing moisture levels, detecting salt deposits, and evaluating the condition of the damp proof course. Relying solely on visual signs is often insufficient. At RI Building Surveying, our surveyors provide comprehensive damp surveys that assess the entire property, ensuring that rising damp is properly distinguished from condensation or other moisture issues

 Acting early is generally more economical than waiting. Accurate diagnosis ensures the correct treatment is used, preventing unnecessary expenses on temporary solutions. RI Building Surveying offers damp surveys to help homeowners understand the problem and potential costs before proceeding with any work.

Booking a damp survey with RI Building Surveying is straightforward. After scheduling, an experienced surveyor will visit your property to check for rising damp and determine its root cause. You'll get clear, honest advice along with a report that details the recommended actions. Our aim is to assist homeowners in addressing rising damp effectively and confidently. To book, click here. 

There are three types of residential surveys, each serving a different purpose. RICS guidelines prevent us from recommending which survey you should choose. Here's a brief overview of each:

A Condition Report(Snagging Survey) is designed for new builds. It offers minimal detail, assuming that these properties are in good condition and come with a 10-year guarantee.

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Most properties benefit from a Home Buyer Report, which describes the property and highlights any short- to medium-term defects. It provides a comprehensive, non-invasive snapshot, inspecting the exterior—including the roof, chimneys, gutters, walls, windows, and doors—and the interior, including the roof structure, ceilings, walls, floors, fireplaces, kitchens, and bathrooms. The services—gas, water, heating, and electricity—are checked for irregularities that don't meet standards.

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A Building Survey is suitable for Listed buildings, those in poor repair, or properties that have been extensively extended. It details the fabric and materials of the building, which is useful for maintenance or renovation, as such properties typically require more work than modern ones. As with the Home Buyer Report, both interior and exterior are inspected, and defects are identified.

We will handle all the arrangements. Just provide the contact details of the selling Estate Agency.

We will do it as soon as possible, but it's not entirely in our control. The owner or tenant must give access to the surveyor, who will select the most convenient date and time.

Yes. Please inform us of any particular concerns regarding the property or plans for future modifications, and the surveyor will include these in the report.

RICS Level 2 Survey

RICS Level 3 Survey

Snagging Survey

Damp Survey

Condensation Survey

Commercial Surveys

Schedule of Condition

Condition Surveys

Dilapidations

Specific Defect Survey