which professional can help identify source of damp in hallway?

muddled

Hello there,

We have a growing damp patch in the hall where the exterior wall and ceiling meet. The patch is moving downwards and is worse when it rains - there's a surprise!

We've had roofers and builders both look at this and at one stage we thought the problem was sorted when we had lead flashing put in under the bedroom window.

However the dampness reappeared a few months later when we had heavy rain.

Can anyone advise who best is able to check where the water is coming in from please?

dkmax_2

muddled wrote: »

Can anyone advise who best is able to check where the water is coming in from please?

I'd say you are. Next time it is bucketing down, go outside and take a look at what is happening. Use a bright torch if necessary. Look for water flowing down the wall or splashing out of your gutters. It can be surprisingly obvious when you watch it in action. If you have a loft, go up inside to look and listen!

In the meantime, clear out your gutters and check the down-pipes. Check for signs of moss or other vegetation as that'll hint at where the water is getting to. Also, have a look at your pointing.

If it still isn't clear, then lift some floorboards or plasterboard. The source might not be external but coincidence may have convinced you otherwise. Could be a slow leak or condensation on a cold wall or pipe.
Remember that water can flow down along timber joists etc. so it might not be getting in near to where it is emerging.

muddled

Thank you dkmax.

Only just been able to access the forum for some reason.

Will definately follow your suggestions. Didn't even think that the problem might be internal so will look to see if there is condensation or a slow leak.

Once again thank you.

daveyjp

DO you have cavity wall insulation? I've seen examples of similar problems where the wall insulation hasn't been done correctly.

diable

Check the windowsills to see if the drip groove (I think thats what you call it) isn't blocked with paint. As someone mentioned have a look when its raining as your gutters may be blocked and also check your neighbours as water can be over flowing from their side.