how to find a decent damp specialist??

m_curiousity

Hiya,

We've just discovered there is a damp problem in the house we are currently buying, and we therefore need to get a specialist (or two!) in to have a look and give a quote on repairing it. Have asked around but no one seems to have had any experience with them and cant recommend any.

Is there anyway to find a reputable company that can give me a quote? I have called 2 that were recommended by the surveyors and one cant fit us in for ages, the other charges a £45 fee for a visit and quote, (will pay this if we have to but just not sure if its the norm!).

Thanks for any advice

Vincenzo

It depends where you are in the country but a friend in London used Kenwood who I believe do free surveys. The report was comprehensive. I felt their costs of remedy were high but if you are hoping to negotiate the price down, this could be to your advantage.

http://www.kenwoodplc.co.uk/

m_curiousity

Thanks, we are looking ideally for a company in East Sussex

Vincenzo

Kenwood have a Brighton office.

m_curiousity

Noticed that just after I replied! Appreciated

David_Aldred

Hi,
Options are you have a contractor looking for work undertake an inspection and issue a quotation or you have an independent specialist surveyor in these subjects inspect to give you an unbiased qaulified opinion about what is going on with budget costs. The advantage of the contractor is that their report will be either free or a minimal charge. The disadvantage is that a contractor may only be interested in selling their treatment and not look at everything in detail as to what is actually causing the problem. The independent will charge for their inspection but the time they spend on site and the report they issue will be much more comprehensive and perhaps give you more piece of mind that the opinions expressed are unbiased. In either case the person should be CSRT or CRDS / CTIS qualified and ensure they have professional indemnity insurance to give the opinions you are relying upon. A list of both contractors and independent freelance surveyors specialising in these subjects can be found on the Property Care Association (PCA) website. Be mindful that an electrical damp meter cannot prove rising dampness and anyone stating such is simply taking a guess. You may wish to read my other posts on this forum regarding dampness, condensation, wet and dry rot, electrical damp meters, woodworm and cavity wall ties which may give some background information on the matter. Kindest regards, David Aldred Independent damp and timber surveyor.