Noticing damp patches, peeling wallpaper, or a musty smell in your home? You might be dealing with rising damp. Left unchecked, it can cause structural damage and expensive repairs.

The good news? A rising damp survey can help identify the issue before it worsens. Now, we’ll walk you through a simple, step-by-step process to check your home for rising damp and take action.

What Is Rising Damp?

Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground travels up through porous materials like bricks and mortar. It’s a common problem in older homes without a proper damp-proof course (DPC).

Signs of Rising Damp

• Tide Marks & Stains: Brown or yellow staining up to 1 meter from the ground.

• Peeling Wallpaper & Paint: Moisture causes paint to bubble and wallpaper to lift.

• White Powdery Deposits (Salts): Salts from the ground rise with the moisture and appear as a white crust.

• Damp or Musty Smell: Persistent, unpleasant odour.

• Crumbling Plaster: Plaster becomes soft and starts to break away.

If you notice these signs, it’s time for a thorough survey.

Step-by-Step Guide to Conducting a Rising Damp Survey

Step 1: Perform a Visual Inspection

Start with a simple walk-through of your home, focusing on the lower parts of walls, especially in basements and ground-floor rooms.

• Look for tide marks, peeling paint, and powdery salt deposits.

• Check skirting boards for warping or signs of moisture damage.

• Inspect external walls for cracked bricks or damaged mortar, which may let moisture in.

Pro Tip: Rising damp doesn’t typically go higher than 1 meter. If dampness extends beyond this, you might be dealing with condensation or penetrating damp instead.

Step 2: Use a Moisture Meter

A moisture meter is an essential tool for detecting damp in walls. These are available at most DIY stores or can be borrowed from a local tool hire shop.

• Press the prongs of the moisture meter into different areas of the affected wall.

• Take readings at various heights to see how high the moisture extends.

• Compare results to the normal dry levels (typically below 15%). Readings above 20% suggest damp issues.

Fact: According to the Property Care Association, moisture levels above 20% indicate a significant damp problem that requires attention.

Step 3: Check for a Damp-Proof Course (DPC)

A damp-proof course (DPC) is a barrier installed in walls to prevent moisture from rising.

• Look at the external walls of your home, about 15 cm above ground level.

• You should see a horizontal strip of plastic, slate, or bitumen—this is your DPC.

• If you don’t see one, or if it's damaged, this could be the cause of your rising damp.

Pro Tip: Homes built before 1875 often lack a DPC, making them more vulnerable to rising damp.

Step 4: Examine the Ground Levels Outside

Outdoor ground levels should be at least 15 cm below your DPC. If soil, paving, or flower beds are too high, they can bridge the damp-proof course and allow moisture to bypass it.

• Clear away soil or debris touching the wall.

• Ensure rainwater drains away from the house properly.

• Look for blocked air bricks or vents that could trap moisture.

Fact: The British Standards Institution (BSI) recommends maintaining at least 150 mm (15 cm) of clearance between ground level and DPC.

Step 5: Check Internal Ventilation

Poor ventilation can make damp problems worse. Check for signs of condensation, such as water droplets on windows or walls.

• Open windows daily to improve airflow.

• Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms.

• Consider a dehumidifier to reduce indoor moisture levels.

Pro Tip: Keeping your home well-ventilated can help prevent condensation damp, which often mimics the signs of rising damp.

Step 6: Confirm with a Professional Surveyor

If your checks indicate rising damp, it’s wise to get a professional damp survey. A surveyor will:

• Use advanced damp meters to confirm moisture levels.

• Assess the condition of your DPC and walls.

• Provide a detailed report with recommended treatments.

Cost of a Professional Survey:

• Basic damp surveys range from £150 to £400 depending on the property size.

• Full structural surveys, which include damp assessments, can cost £600 or more.

How to Fix Rising Damp

1. Repair or Install a Damp-Proof Course (DPC)

• If your DPC is damaged, it may need replacing.

• For homes without a DPC, a chemical injection DPC is a modern solution.

2. Improve Drainage Around the Home

• Lower soil and paving to keep ground levels at least 15 cm below DPC.

• Install drainage channels to divert water away from walls.

3. Treat & Replaster Affected Walls

• Remove damp plaster and allow walls to dry fully before re-plastering.

• Use a salt-resistant plaster to prevent moisture from re-entering.

Preventing Rising Damp in the Future

• Regularly inspect your home for damp signs.

• Keep outdoor ground levels low.

• Ensure gutters and downpipes are clear and working properly.

• Improve ventilation inside your home.

Fact: According to the Energy Saving Trust, homes with effective damp-proofing and ventilation can reduce energy bills by up to 15% by preventing heat loss through damp walls.

Final Thoughts

Conducting a rising damp survey doesn’t require specialist skills—just a keen eye and the right tools. By following this guide, homeowners in Norwich can spot early signs of rising damp and take action before it leads to costly damage.

If in doubt, consulting a professional can save time and ensure your home stays dry and damage-free. Need help? Consider booking a damp survey to get expert advice tailored to your property.

Get Rising Damp Treatment in Norwich—Contact Now!

FAQs

1. Can I Fix Rising Damp Myself?

Minor cases can be managed by improving ventilation and lowering ground levels, but severe cases often require professional treatment.

2. How Long Does a Damp Survey Take?

A typical damp survey takes 1-2 hours, depending on property size.

3. How Much Does Rising Damp Treatment Cost?

• Chemical DPC injection: £400 - £1,000 per property.

• Full replastering: £1,000 - £3,000.

By following this guide, you can take control of your home’s damp issues and protect your property for years to come!