Homeowner Damp & Timber Survey

Who this survey is for

This is the survey most people need. It suits anyone who owns a house or flat in West Yorkshire, whether you live in it or let it out, and has spotted something that worries them: staining low down on a wall, paint or plaster that won't stay put, mould coming back every winter, a damp smell in a cellar or under the stairs, or timber that looks or feels wrong.

The inspection can cover a single room or problem area, or the whole property. Tell Ben what you've noticed when you get in touch and he'll suggest the right scope, and confirm the fee before anything is booked.

Why the diagnosis matters

Most damp in homes is not rising damp. It is far more often rain getting in through tired pointing, a leaking gutter or downpipe, outside ground or paths built up above the damp-proof course, a hidden plumbing leak, or condensation from everyday living. Each has a completely different fix, and some of those fixes cost very little.

Getting it wrong is expensive. A chemical damp-proof course and new plaster will not cure a blocked gutter or a steamy bathroom, and the problem simply returns. An independent diagnosis means you only pay for work that addresses the actual cause.

What Ben checks

• Moisture readings taken in a pattern across affected walls, floors and joinery, so the source can be traced rather than guessed
• Room humidity and surface temperatures, to judge whether condensation is playing a part
• The outside of the building: gutters, downpipes, pointing, render, sills, chimneys, ground levels and paths
• The damp-proof course line, air bricks and sub-floor ventilation
• Skirtings, floors, window frames and roof timbers where accessible, for wet rot, dry rot and wood-boring insects
• Heating, ventilation and extract fans, and how the rooms are being used

What your report includes

After the visit you'll receive a written report by email. It explains in plain English what was found, the most likely cause of each problem, the work needed to put it right, who can do that work (often a general builder, roofer or plumber rather than a damp specialist), and a guide to the likely cost. You can then get quotes from whoever you choose.

Available across West Yorkshire

Ben carries out this survey throughout West Yorkshire from his base in Cleckheaton. Choose your area:

• Leeds
• Bradford
• Wakefield
• Huddersfield
• Halifax
• Dewsbury
• Batley
• Morley
• Brighouse
• Mirfield
• Pontefract
• Castleford
• Cleckheaton
• Heckmondwike
• Birstall
• Lightcliffe