As part of our assessment of the likely causes of damp we check internally and externally for symptoms of dampness. Our findings are not an assessment of the state of the property as a whole, merely in the context of damp. This was a non-invasive survey so we do not access the sub-floor or roof voids. We assess whether there is reason to suspect current sub-floor or roof timber rot or fungus.
Without prior written permission, we are unable to inspect woodwork or other parts of the structure which are covered, unexposed or inaccessible, and are therefore unable to report that such parts of the property are free from defect.
Damp
We examine the interior area of the property including all rooms and hallways to determine if there was any dampness or timber defects present. We only note defects to;
- Property condition.
- Evidence of rising dampness in the property and risk.
- Evidence that the original damp proof membrane is damaged or defective.
- Evidence of current penetrating dampness.
- We check the surface of all walls internally for signs of high meter readings.
- We examine the plaster and decorating for signs of penetrating dampness nor rising dampness.
- We also carefully examine the walls inside the kitchen cabinets, and closets, and took damp readings there – no dampness was detected.
- We check ceilings for stains.
- Electrical points are vulnerable as the plaster likely to have been changed and the metal from sockets and wires will cool down rapidly and cause condensation. Also, bearing in mind that all electrical points are set with screws drilled into the masonry wall, if plaster or render was damp there would be evidence of this where the screws were drilled into the wall.
Timber survey
- During a timber survey we examine all visible floorboards, doors and architrave. If any evidence of timber rot, fungus or insect infestation is identified, or we have suspicions that they may be present, we will report them.
- Skirting boards are carefully examined and evidence of dampness noted. This is significant as fixing skirting boards to rendered masonry walls requires pre-drilled pilot holes to fit the plastic plugs and screws or nails. These holes can often be up to 100mm deep. If damp is present in the walls, it will rust iron nails or screws, and visibly “bleed” out into the skirting board.