Independent Damp Survey – What Does it Entail?

At London Damp Specialists, we offer independent damp surveys to London home and business owners, with a range of survey levels that are designed for the customer’s needs. We have a total of 3 levels of damp inspection, which range from an inspection of exterior walls to a comprehensive survey using state-of-the-art digital equipment. If damp, mould or timber rot are present, we will find it and determine the causes.

Independent Damp Survey: Level 1 – This includes a thorough inspection of all external walls, floors and ceilings, looking for any signs of rising or penetrating damp. This survey is ideal for a person who is planning to buy a London property; enlisting the services of damp experts brings reassurance and with such a big investment, it makes total sense to have the property inspected for damp and other moisture issues. If you are selling, being able to show a damp all-clear from a reputable damp specialist is a big plus!

Independent Damp Survey: Level 2 – This includes everything in level 1, plus a thorough examination of timber roof sections, namely joists and rafters, looking for those tell-tale signs of damp, mould, timber rot and woodworm. If we find damp issues, we can recommend a leading damp-proofing specialist in London; a company that issues an unconditional 30-year guarantee on all their damp-proofing work.

Independent Damp Survey: Level 3 – All in levels 1 & 2, along with the use of thermal imagery, borescope cameras and drone inspections to check every square inch of the roof. We also do a definitive ventilation flow test to accurately determine airflow and you receive a detailed report in your inbox the following day, which may contain remedial work recommendations.

Cutting-Edge Equipment

Our damp surveyors use the following to inspect London properties:

• Damp meter – This is used to measure moisture, both on surfaces and within materials such as plaster and timber. There are two types, one with pins and one without.
• Hygrometer – A device to accurately measure humidity, which enables the surveyor to zone in on suspect areas when looking for damp and mould.
• Thermal camera – Using infrared imagery tells the surveyor exactly where damp could be present; red indicates warm, while blue is cold and when the damp expert points the device at a wall, damp patches reveal themselves.
• Pinhole camera – Known as a borescope camera, this device lets the surveyor get a close-up look in those dark corners and under flooring.
• Drone imagery – The drone is two-fold, first it allows the surveyor to closely inspect all areas of the roof and it can also take hi-res images to show the client. Any experienced damp surveyor would be a competent drone operator and considers this handy device as an essential piece of kit.

When is the Best Time to Survey a Property?

In the event you are buying or selling, you should book an independent damp survey from London Damp Specialists; call us on 020 7523 5882 or leave your contact details in the online form on this website.