When to Call a Damp Specialist: Warning Signs to Watch For

Owning property here in the UK comes at a price and in such a wet climate, damp is a real issue. Rising damp can creep up a building, starting at ground level, damaging timber, brickwork and plaster in the process. Damp can cause thousands of pounds worth of damage to a building and in this short blog, we highlight a few tell-tale signs that it is time to call in London Damp Specialists.

• Damp patches on the interior walls – Check all rooms looking for damp patches on walls and ceilings, which is a clear sign that you need to contact a specialist. The professional will identify the cause of the issue and recommend treatment.
• Mould & mildew growth on window sills – Humid conditions are perfect for mould and mildew growth, while condensation thrives in moist conditions. Bathrooms and kitchens are prime locations for heavy condensation, which is why you should create some ventilation in these spaces.
• Water seeping down exterior walls – Blocked guttering causes excess rainwater to run down exterior walls, which is something to avoid at all costs. Most UK homeowners get a local roofing contractor to carry out a roof inspection, which should be an annual event; the tradesman checks roof tiles, clean out guttering and looks for signs of leaks.
• Musky odour – Damp is always accompanied by a strange musky odour, so if you notice this, it is time to call in London Damp Specialists on 020 8528 3864 or simply fill in the form on our website. Lack of ventilation only makes the situation worse, especially in the winter months.
• Insect infestations – Insects love damp and humid conditions and if you notice ants, mites or crustaceans, this is a sure sign that damp is present. You could call in a pest control company, but we recommend sorting out the dampness, as this will drive the insects out, as the environment will not be suitable.
• Paint discolouration – Damp and mould cause paint to discolour and eventually rot will set in; now is the time to have your property surveyed for damp and mould, we are a family-owned business that is well established in London and the Home Counties and we can match any legitimate quote for damp survey and work. The earlier you catch penetrating damp, the easier the fix and we offer a no-quibble 30-year guarantee on all our work, which is carried out by experienced and qualified tradesmen.

Do a regular inspection, looking for all of the above and if you don’t find anything, a big congrats from us. Be proactive regarding damp and mould, as we live in a wet climate, with a rainy season all year round, wet ground is the ideal place for a structure to be under attack.

If you are looking to buy property in the London area, give us a call on 020 8528 3864 or complete the online form and we can arrange to carry out a homebuyer survey and provide you with a detailed report within 24 hours.