Damp Survey

All accessible walls and chimneys will undergo an internal and external inspection to identify any evidence of dampness, leaks, condensation, or other issues that contribute to or are likely to cause such defects in the future. If the property is furnished, where practical, furniture will be carefully moved to allow further inspection. 

Although the damp survey by itself does not specifically cover timber, if any damp masonry surfaces are found to be in direct contact with structural timbers, you will be appropriately advised on the potential implications.

Efficiency testing of extract fan

The image shows me using an approved testing method to assess the effectiveness of a decentralised System 3 fan in an en-suite. The test was prompted when mould spores were observed on surfaces in the vicinity of the shower. All other possible causes of the mould had been inspected and ruled out. 

Despite having a fan installed to remove moist air, the internal environment remained humid, creating ideal conditions for mould growth. While the fan was found to be functioning properly, it struggled to operate effectively when the door was closed due to the lack of replacement air. With no windows and a tightly fitting door, simply opening the door slightly allowed the fan to perform as designed. 

The recommendation was straightforward: create a 10mm gap at the bottom of the door to allow the fan to expel moist air while drawing in fresh, drier air through the gap, and open trickle vents in other rooms. This cost effective measure reduced the build up of moisture to acceptable levels, well below the amount required for mould to germinate and grow.

Penetrating Damp

Here's an example of penetrating damp effecting a chimney breast and external wall. The dampness is visible where the plasterboarded surface has been 'dot and dabbed' onto the now damp masonry. The source of this moisture was identified as an open chimney stack, which allowed rainwater to saturate the inner face of the chimney and over time, track through to the internal surface. 

The remedial treatment advised included isolating the source of moisture by having the open chimney stack covered whilst ensuring suitable ventilation was maintained. Additionally, readings taken from the affected area suggested that the internal surfaces had become contaminated with mineral salts, likely washed through from the chimney lining. These salts, which result from the burning of fossil fuels in chimneys, are hygroscopic and will continue to draw moisture from the internal air, leading to ongoing damp problems if not addressed. The existing contaminated plaster would have to be removed and a salt-inhibiting additive or layer would need to be added to the re-plastering system.