Damp proof inspection - Do it now or can it wait?

ahfh1

Hi,

Just bought a new house, and I'm thinking of getting a damp inspection done. However, the house has been empty for 6 months and cold in there. Is it a good idea to get the inspection done now in the winter, or wait until the summer when there is possibly less bias towards damp?

The house is empty now, so there may be a case of getting it done now with nothing in the way.

Thanks

House_Hunter

We had several inspections done as soon as we bought our place...and to be honest, it doesn't really make too much difference whether its lived in or not.

Its not major to move a few sofa's or tables to be able to stick their sensor in the wall....

However, if you are sure you have a damp problem and are thinking of getting work done to fix it (e.g. new chemical DPC) then this is definately worth doing before you move in - as it is very messy.

I personally would be extremely doubtful of any results this time of year though, most older houses will have some form of dampness at this time of year, which some less "reputable" inspectors may pass off as problems.

ahfh1

House_Hunter wrote: »

I personally would be extremely doubtful of any results this time of year though, most older houses will have some form of dampness at this time of year, which some less "reputable" inspectors may pass off as problems.

That was my worry. Also, say some chemical does need to be used, will the cold weather affect the chemical's ability to 'set' properly?

dampdaveski

Hi ahfh,
are you thinking of getting a survey done for 'peace of mind'? or are there obvious problems that need some form of remedy?
You could get one done now whilst the property is empty as it makes life a lot easier for the surveyor
It is easier to get 'false readings' with some damp meters at this time of year, particularly if the house has been empty. However a reputable surveyor should be able to determine 'false' readings. I appreciate the problem is finding a reputable surveyor. As far as 'damp' goes if works are needed you should be able to see something. If a surveyor says it's rising damp and you need a new damp proof course BUT there is nothing to see, be very wary he might be one of the naughty ones.
Try a PCA member www.property-care.org at least if you get a member of the PCA you have someone to complain to if you think you've been misled.
hope this helps
DD