A Chartered Surveyor would undertake a systematic investigation to diagnose a damp problem in your external walls. Here’s an overview of the typical steps involved:
- Visual Inspection: The surveyor begins by conducting a visual inspection of the affected areas both internally and externally. They look for signs of dampness such as water stains, blistering paint, crumbling plaster, or mould growth. External factors such as damaged pointing, cracked render, or blocked gutters are also noted.
- Moisture Meter Readings: Using a moisture meter, the surveyor measures the moisture levels in the affected walls. Elevated moisture readings indicate the presence of dampness, helping to pinpoint the extent and severity of the problem.
- Thermal Imaging: Thermal imaging cameras may be used to detect temperature variations and moisture patterns within the walls. This non-invasive technique can identify hidden areas of dampness not visible to the naked eye.
- Building History and Maintenance Records: The surveyor reviews the building’s history and maintenance records to identify any previous damp issues, repairs, or alterations that may contribute to the current problem. This information provides valuable context for the investigation.
- External Environment Assessment: The surveyor evaluates the external environment surrounding the property, including factors such as site drainage, landscaping, neighbouring structures, and exposure to weather elements. Poor external drainage or water ingress from adjacent properties can exacerbate damp problems.
- Building Construction Analysis: Understanding the construction of the external walls is crucial. The surveyor assesses the type of construction, materials used, and the condition of wall elements such as cavity barriers, insulation, and damp proof courses. Defects in these components can contribute to moisture ingress.
- Diagnostic Tests: In some cases, diagnostic tests such as salt analysis or hygrometer readings may be conducted to assess the presence of salts or humidity levels within the walls, providing additional insights into the damp problem’s cause.
- Recommendations and Remedial Actions: Based on the findings of the investigation, the surveyor provides recommendations for remedial actions to address the damp problem effectively. This may include repairs to defective external elements, improvements to drainage systems, or treatments to inhibit moisture ingress and promote drying.
By following this comprehensive investigative process, a Chartered Surveyor can accurately diagnose the cause of dampness in external walls and provide targeted solutions to rectify the problem, ensuring a dry and healthy living environment.