Identifying Damp in a Property – A Homebuyer’s Experience

Our clients were first-time homebuyers, looking to purchase a charming Victorian terrace in Richmond. The property had been beautifully renovated and appeared ideal during their initial viewing. To be sure there were no hidden problems, they commissioned a Homebuyer’s Report from Magowans Chartered Surveyors.

During the inspection, the surveyor, Chris, noticed signs that raised concern about dampness, an issue common in older properties. While some of the interior walls had been freshly painted, the surveyor detected tell-tale signs such as a musty smell, slight blistering on the paintwork near the skirting boards, and salt deposits, also known as “efflorescence.”

To confirm the presence of damp, Chris used a moisture meter to measure the levels of moisture within the walls. In several areas, the readings were unusually high, particularly in the ground floor living room and under the stairs, suggesting rising damp. Additionally, damp patches were noted near windows, indicating potential condensation problems.

Chris provided a comprehensive report, detailing the extent of the damp and highlighting areas that required further attention. This allowed our clients to understand the severity of the problem and obtain quotes for necessary damp-proofing work. They approached the seller with this information, renegotiating the property price to account for the cost of repairs.

With the assistance of Magowans Chartered Surveyors, our clients successfully identified an issue that could have led to costly repairs if left unchecked. Thanks to the survey, they proceeded with the purchase on fairer terms, budgeting adequately for the required damp-proof treatment. This experience underscored the importance of a thorough property survey in protecting homebuyers from unforeseen complications and expenses.

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