Straightforward answers about damp, timber decay, condensation, basement waterproofing, replastering and arranging your survey with Kennedy Damp Proofing.
A professional damp and timber survey requires time, specialist equipment and an experienced assessment of the property. Charging for the survey allows us to provide considered, impartial recommendations rather than relying on a quick sales inspection.
Our survey fee is £175 + VAT.
A 50% deposit is required when booking. The remaining balance is payable when the survey has been completed.
Yes. If you proceed with the recommended treatment, the survey fee will be deducted from the cost of the works.
The survey normally includes an inspection of accessible affected areas, appropriate moisture readings, investigation of likely causes and clear recommendations for any required treatment or repairs.
The precise assessment will depend on the type of problem and the accessibility of the property.
We provide clear findings and written recommendations or a quotation where remedial work is required. If you need a particular type of formal report, please tell us before booking so we can confirm whether it falls within the survey’s scope.
This depends on the size of the property, the number of affected areas and the complexity of the problem. We will provide an indication when arranging your appointment.
Where possible, move furniture and stored items away from affected walls, loft hatches, floor access points and other areas that need inspecting. Please also tell us about any known leaks, previous treatments or recent building work.
Sometimes. Damp and timber problems can be concealed behind finishes or below floors. We will inspect accessible areas and explain if additional opening-up work is required before a complete diagnosis can be made.
Please contact us before booking. Our surveys focus on damp, timber decay and associated defects and are not a replacement for a full structural survey, building survey or property valuation.
Yes. You can select an available appointment through our online booking system and pay the required deposit securely.
A professional damp and timber survey requires time, specialist equipment and an experienced assessment of the property. Charging for the survey allows us to provide considered, impartial recommendations rather than relying on a quick sales inspection.
Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground moves upwards through porous masonry. It normally affects the lower section of ground-floor walls and may carry salts into the plaster.
Penetrating damp is caused by water entering through a defect in the external building fabric. Common causes include damaged pointing, defective gutters, leaking pipes, cracked render and faults around windows or roofs.
Rising damp normally affects lower ground-floor walls. Condensation is more likely to form on cold surfaces, windows, external corners and behind furniture.
Moisture patterns and symptoms can overlap, so the property should be assessed before treatment is recommended.
No. Dampness can be caused by several different problems, and installing a damp-proof course will not correct condensation, plumbing leaks or external water penetration.
We recommend treatment only after identifying the likely source.
Treatment may involve installing a remedial damp-proof course, removing contaminated plaster and applying an appropriate replastering system. The exact specification depends on the wall construction and survey findings.
The defect allowing water to enter must be repaired. This may involve work to gutters, pointing, render, roofing, pipework or external seals, followed by drying and internal reinstatement where required.
Small areas may take a few days, while larger projects involving plaster removal, treatment and reinstatement will take longer. The anticipated programme will be explained in your quotation.
Usually, yes. However, the rooms being treated may be unavailable and the work can create some dust and noise. We will explain what to expect before starting.
Drying is gradual and depends on wall thickness, construction, ventilation, temperature and the original level of moisture. Walls should not be redecorated until the new finish has dried sufficiently.
Qualifying treatments can be covered by a long-term guarantee of up to 20 years. The applicable guarantee and its conditions will be stated in your quotation.
Basement tanking is the process of protecting below-ground walls and floors against water entering through the surrounding ground.
Different systems manage water in different ways, so the correct specification depends on the structure and intended use of the space.
Common options include bonded waterproof coatings and cavity drain membrane systems. A membrane system controls incoming water and directs it to a suitable drainage point, while bonded systems resist water at the internal surface.
There is no single system suitable for every basement. The correct choice depends on water pressure, construction, drainage, intended use and the condition of the existing structure.
A professionally designed waterproofing system can create a controlled and usable internal environment. Its performance depends on correct installation, suitable drainage and any required ongoing maintenance.
No. Dampness can be caused by several different problems, and installing a damp-proof course will not correct condensation, plumbing leaks or external water penetration.
We recommend treatment only after identifying the likely source.
Potentially, but waterproofing is only one part of a basement conversion. Ventilation, insulation, heating, fire safety, drainage and Building Regulations may also need to be considered.
Not always. Water may be discharged through gravity drainage where the site permits. If this is not possible, a sump and pump system may be required.
Yes. Pumps, drainage channels and alarms should be inspected and maintained according to the system specification. Maintenance helps ensure the system remains operational when needed.
Timescales depend on the basement size, existing finishes, waterproofing system and amount of associated building work. A clear programme will be included with the quotation.
Guarantees may be available on qualifying installations. The length, coverage and any maintenance requirements will be explained before work begins.
Woodworm is the general term used for the larvae of wood-boring beetles that live in and feed on timber. The small holes usually associated with woodworm are exit holes left when adult beetles emerge.
Not necessarily. Exit holes can remain visible for many years after an infestation has ended. Fresh dust, clean-edged holes and the condition of the surrounding timber can help indicate whether activity may be current.
Where active infestation is confirmed, treatment may involve applying a professional insecticidal product to accessible affected and at-risk timber. Severely weakened material may also need to be repaired or replaced.
No. Timber should normally be replaced only when it has lost too much structural strength. Sound timber can often be retained and treated where appropriate.
Both develop when timber is exposed to excessive moisture. Possible causes include leaks, penetrating damp, poor subfloor ventilation and timber being in contact with damp masonry.
Wet rot generally remains concentrated around its moisture source. Dry rot can spread beyond the initially affected timber and travel across adjoining materials in search of more timber.
Dry rot does not consume masonry, but fungal strands can travel across or through cracks and joints in adjoining materials to reach further timber.
Warning signs include soft or crumbling timber, cracking, discolouration, fungal strands, fruiting bodies, musty smells and floors that feel uneven or unusually flexible.
No. The moisture source must also be resolved. If the timber remains persistently damp, fungal decay may continue or return.
Qualifying timber treatments may be covered by a long-term guarantee. The coverage and conditions will be explained in your treatment proposal.
Condensation forms when warm, moisture-laden air meets a sufficiently cold surface. Cooking, bathing, drying clothes, limited ventilation and inconsistent heating can all contribute.
Moisture produced inside the property can collect on cold glass as the room cools overnight. Frequent heavy condensation can indicate excessive humidity or insufficient ventilation.
External corners and areas behind furniture are often colder and receive less airflow. Moisture can repeatedly condense on these surfaces, creating suitable conditions for mould growth.
No. Condensation is a common cause, but mould may also develop near leaks or areas of penetrating damp. The moisture source should be investigated before treatment begins.
Cleaning removes visible growth but does not necessarily reduce humidity, improve ventilation or increase the temperature of the affected surface. Unless those conditions change, mould may return.
Cleaning removes visible growth but does not necessarily reduce humidity, improve ventilation or increase the temperature of the affected surface. Unless those conditions change, mould may return.
Opening windows can provide temporary ventilation, but it may not offer consistent control. Effective extraction and controlled background ventilation are usually more reliable.
A dehumidifier can reduce airborne moisture and help manage symptoms, but it does not correct defective extraction, restricted airflow, cold bridging or the underlying source of excessive humidity.
Positive input ventilation introduces a controlled supply of filtered air into the property. In suitable homes, it can help dilute humid indoor air and encourage stale air to leave through vents and natural leakage points.
Not necessarily. The right solution may involve improved extraction, background ventilation, heating adjustments, airflow changes or a combination of measures.
Persistent condensation can damage plaster, decorations, window finishes, furniture and vulnerable timber. It can also make rooms feel cold and uncomfortable.
Damp-affected plaster may be weakened or contaminated with salts. Leaving unsuitable material in place can cause staining, bubbling and deterioration of new decorations.
Only when the existing plaster remains sound and compatible with the proposed finish. Skimming over loose or salt-contaminated material may conceal the problem temporarily but is unlikely to provide a reliable result.
No. The extent of removal depends on the plaster’s condition, salt contamination and the remedial system being installed. Sound material may sometimes be retained.
This depends on the extent of the damage and contamination. The proposed area will be explained and included within the quotation before work begins.
The specification depends on the wall construction and underlying treatment. It may include salt-resistant render, renovating plaster, compatible finishing coats or finishes installed over a membrane system.
Yes. Older and traditionally constructed properties may require different materials from modern buildings. The plaster system should be selected according to the wall construction.
Drying time depends on the material, thickness, temperature, ventilation and moisture remaining within the building. We provide guidance after completing the work.
The plaster should be completely dry before decoration. Painting too early can trap moisture or affect the finish.
Your quotation will clearly state what is included. Replastering would normally leave the surface ready for decoration once it has dried fully.
Where removal is required, the quotation will explain which fittings will be reinstated and whether any additional electrical, carpentry or decorating work is needed.
