Basement Damp Surveys

Surveying Basements for Damp and Mould

Many London homes have underground living space and damp is a very real threat, especially in low-lying areas where moisture retention is high. Waterproofing below-ground spaces is known as basement tanking and there are numerous strategies to combat damp in basements and cellars. Installing a cavity drainage system is an effective way to redirect water from a basement into mains drains, with a sump pump to direct the water to designated drainage points. A studded membrane is affixed to the walls to create a cavity, then waterproof plaster is applied to the interior and a final coat of skim plaster. Waterproof cement is widely used to create a barrier that damp cannot penetrate, yet this alone is typically inadequate, as the source of the moisture must be identified and treated.

Pre-Purchase Independent Damp Survey

If you are planning to buy a house in London and you want a definitive answer regarding damp and mould, we are the go-to company for independent basement surveys in London. Our certified damp surveyors use cutting-edge tools and equipment to accurately assess a basement/cellar for signs of damp, mould and timber rot.

Sourcing the Origins of Damp

Once damp or mould is discovered, its origins then need to be sourced and a treatment plan created. Our surveyors work quietly and effectively, using a range of state-of-the-art tools and devices to identify damp, mould and timber rot. Thermal imaging and borescope cameras help the inspector to carry out an accurate damp assessment that comes with a detailed report.

When people move into a London home, they might not use the basement for a few months and in this time, a lot of damage can be caused. In some cases, the basement has to be emptied, plaster removed and channels need to be excavated in the floor. A studded membrane is fitted to the walls and floor, creating a barrier between the ground and the interior, while water is channelled away from the building.

Different Types of Basement

• Daylight Basement – A basement on a slope where part of the floor is above ground level, while part is below ground and windows provide ventilation.
• Lookout Basement – Built on a flat area with part of the basement above ground level.
• Walk-Up Basement – An entrance via a stairwell with basement doors to keep water out.
• Underground Cellar – Where the entire basement is below ground level. Typically used for storage and requires ventilation.
• Below Ground Floor Space – Usually a very low ceiling; a person would not be able to stand up in this space, which would be used for storage only.

If you would like a professional damp inspection of your London basement, call London Damp Specialists on 020 7523 5882 or complete the form at the bottom of this page.

Basement Waterproofing Systems for London Homes

There are two main basement tanking systems that are used by top damp-proofing companies in London;

• Cavity drainage system; Sump and pump
• Tanking & rendering system

Regardless of the type of basement waterproofing, all damaged masonry and plaster must be removed and the substrate cleaned and prepared.

Cavity Drainage System

If regular waterproof plaster and render are not sufficient, our independent damp surveyor would recommend installing a cavity drainage system. Studded membrane panels are fitted on walls and floors, which creates a cavity, where water is drained into floor channels and then into a sump to be pumped to drainage points. The interior walls are then coated with a waterproof render, followed by a final skim of plaster, which ensures the moisture is prevented from reaching the interior membrane.

This is a very effective way to keep a basement dry in wet areas and it must be professionally installed. With cavities on floors, walls and ceilings, you have a dry central space and water is managed by a sump and pump. While we only carry out independent surveys, we work closely with the best damp-proofing contractors in London. We are able to give a ballpark quote for basement damp-proofing in London, along with the detailed survey report. Regardless of the amount of water around the interior, it stays dry, and the water is channelled away.

Basement Tanking

This involves removing damaged plaster and render, preparing the substrate for a new coating of waterproof render, then applying a thick coat. When this has dried completely, another coat is applied and after that is dry, a final skim of plaster to finish the job. If you are thinking of buying a London property with a basement, we specialise in inspecting below-ground living space, looking for signs of damp, condensation, mould and wood rot.

To book an independent basement damp survey, call London Damp Specialists on 020 8945 5547 or fill out the form at the bottom of this page.