What a damp & mould survey covers
A damp and mould survey is a structured diagnostic visit that identifies the type, source, and extent of moisture-related damage in a property. The surveyor produces a written report with photographic evidence, recommended remedial work, and supporting moisture-meter readings. Specialist surveyors distinguish between rising damp, penetrating damp, condensation, and plumbing leaks — a distinction that ordinary visual inspection routinely confuses.
- Moisture-meter survey of affected and adjacent areas
- Visual inspection of external envelope, roof, and ground levels
- Internal inspection of affected rooms and adjoining areas
- Salt analysis where rising damp is suspected
- Thermal imaging where cold-bridging may be a contributor
- Ventilation review and humidity logging where condensation is likely
- Written report with diagnosis, recommended remedial works, and indicative cost
Typical findings
- Condensation as the primary cause (often misdiagnosed as rising damp)
- Penetrating damp from defective external pointing or guttering
- Plumbing leaks from concealed pipework
- Genuine rising damp in older solid-wall properties without effective DPC
- Mould growth secondary to moisture and inadequate ventilation
Typical cost: £250-£450 typical residential survey, £450-£900 detailed survey with thermal imaging and humidity logging
When to book: When visible damp, mould, or staining persists despite ventilation improvements, or before commissioning remedial work where the contractor would otherwise also be diagnosing.
Required qualifications for assessor: Property Care Association (PCA) membership with Certified Surveyor in Remedial Treatment (CSRT) qualification, or RICS Building Surveyor with damp-and-mould specialism