If there is one thing most likely to unnecessarily scare off a buyer it is reporting of dampness in a survey.
The majority of older properties have some kind of dampness issue and in the majority of cases this, if it really needs resolving at all, can be addressed fairly easily.
Rising dampness does exist, but it is rarely advisable to install a new damp-proof course in an old wall. However, many surveys suggest if there is any indication of dampness that a ‘damp proofing specialist’ is called in to address the issue. Unfortunately, these people work for companies which install damp-proof courses so may not be best placed to offer independent advice. Quite often installing a new damp-proof course can not only fail to address the problem but can cause further problems.
Dampness coming in from outside can usually be addressed through proper maintenance of the fabric of the building. In most properties however the majority of dampness is due to condensation and this can usually be addressed by resolving issues of ventilation, insulation and heating. Providing the dampness is not affecting structural timberwork it can usually be managed effectively.
Woodworm is another issue that can result in unnecessary worry. Old wormholes are usually inactive and providing the moisture content of the timberwork is reduced by the methods detailed above then an ongoing attack can usually be avoided without resorting to chemical treatments.
I use the very latest and most comprehensive moisture measuring equipment which will help me find the cause of the dampness and then spend time working out the best course of action.
At Gowers Surveyors we specialise in high quality surveys. We’ll point out the good and bad, putting it all into context, so you can move forward with the purchase, with confidence. Call now to book.