Damp Proofing Doncaster — PCA Qualified Damp & Timber Specialists

Diagnosing damp

How do I know if I have rising damp, penetrating damp or condensation?
Look at where the damp is and when it appears. Rising damp forms a horizontal tide mark on ground-floor walls, rarely higher than a metre, often with crumbly plaster and white salt deposits. Penetrating damp shows as patches at any height on outside-facing walls that get worse after rain. Condensation produces black spot mould in cold corners, behind wardrobes and around windows, and is worst in winter. Because the treatments are completely different, a proper survey is worth far more than a guess.

Is rising damp real, or is it a myth?
Rising damp is real, but it is sometimes over-diagnosed. Many homes that are told they need a new damp proof course actually have a bridged damp proof course, external ground levels that are too high, a leaking pipe or condensation. Our surveyors carry PCA CSDB and CSTDB qualifications and investigate the underlying cause before recommending treatment.

My wall has a tide mark but another surveyor said I need the whole house done. Is that right?
Not necessarily. Rising damp normally affects ground-floor walls that are in contact with the ground, so treating upstairs walls or internal partitions without evidence of rising damp is rarely justified. We can provide second-opinion surveys for homeowners who have received a large damp proofing quotation and want an independent assessment.

What causes damp in older Doncaster houses?
Older Doncaster properties can experience damp for a number of reasons, including failed or bridged damp proof courses, deteriorating pointing, damaged render, leaking gutters and downpipes, high external ground levels and blocked air bricks. Later alterations such as raised patios, extensions and changes to ventilation can also create damp problems in properties that were previously dry.

Can damp make me ill?
Persistent damp and mould can contribute to poor indoor air quality and may aggravate respiratory problems, particularly for children, older people and those who are sensitive to mould. If you rent your property and your landlord is not addressing a persistent damp or mould problem, an independent written survey report can provide useful evidence when raising the issue.

Surveys

Do you charge for a damp survey?
Our damp survey service is available to homeowners, landlords and property buyers in Doncaster. Please contact us for current pricing and to discuss the type of survey you require. The cost can vary depending on the size and type of property and whether a timber inspection is also required.

What happens during a damp and timber survey?
The surveyor inspects the inside and outside of the property, takes moisture readings using calibrated equipment, checks ground levels, gutters, pointing and air bricks, and examines accessible areas for signs of timber decay or insect attack. Where required, further investigation such as salt analysis may be recommended. You receive a written report explaining the likely cause of the problem, supported by photographs and clear recommendations for any necessary work.

I’m buying a house in Doncaster and the mortgage valuation asked for a damp and timber report. Can you do that?
Yes. We carry out pre-purchase damp and timber surveys for property buyers in Doncaster. Our written reports can be provided to your solicitor, mortgage lender or other relevant professional where required. If your purchase has a deadline, contact us as early as possible so we can discuss availability.

Do I need to prepare anything before the survey?
Where possible, provide clear access to affected walls and move furniture away from them. If the property has a cellar, loft or other areas that may be relevant to the inspection, make sure these can be accessed safely. If you have a previous damp report, survey or quotation, have it available as this can help us understand what has already been suggested.

Treatment and cost

How much does damp proofing cost in Doncaster?
The cost of damp proofing depends on the cause of the damp, the size of the affected area, the condition of the existing plaster and whether any timber repairs or additional work are required. Rather than giving an inaccurate price without seeing the property, we assess the problem first and provide a clear written quotation for any recommended work. You will know the agreed cost before work begins.

How long does damp proofing take?
The time required depends on the size and complexity of the job. A straightforward single-wall treatment may be completed within one to two days, while larger projects involving several rooms, extensive plaster replacement or timber repairs can take longer. Newly treated and replastered areas also need sufficient drying time before they are decorated.

Do you re-plaster after treating the wall?
Yes. Where plaster has become contaminated with salts or damaged by damp, removing and replacing it can form an important part of the remedial work. We can carry out the necessary plastering and finish the affected areas ready for decoration. Where required, we can also deal with associated work such as skirting boards and other fittings.

Will damp proofing get rid of the mould?
It depends on what is causing the mould. If mould is associated with penetrating or rising damp, treating the underlying moisture problem can help resolve it. However, mould caused by condensation requires a different approach. We can investigate condensation problems and discuss solutions such as improved ventilation, mould treatment and Positive Input Ventilation (PIV).

What is the difference between damp proofing and basement waterproofing?
Damp proofing is generally concerned with preventing moisture from passing through walls above ground level, particularly where rising damp is confirmed. Basement waterproofing deals with water entering areas below ground level where external ground water can place pressure against walls and floors. A cellar or basement with water ingress may therefore require a waterproofing system rather than conventional damp proofing.

Do you treat dry rot, wet rot and woodworm?
Yes. We can investigate timber affected by dry rot, wet rot and woodworm and recommend appropriate remedial work. This may include removing and replacing damaged timber and treating affected areas. Most importantly, we identify and address the source of excess moisture wherever possible because timber treatment alone will not solve a problem if the underlying moisture source remains.

Guarantees, qualifications and booking

Are you PCA qualified?
Our surveyors hold PCA CSDB (Certificated Surveyor in Damp in Buildings) and CSTDB (Certificated Surveyor in Timber and Dampness in Buildings) qualifications, alongside relevant training and qualifications in dampness and timber preservation. This professional knowledge allows us to investigate damp and timber problems before recommending appropriate remedial work.

Is your work guaranteed?
Damp proofing and timber treatment work is covered by a written guarantee where applicable. The length and terms of the guarantee depend on the type of work carried out. We will explain the guarantee provided with your quotation before you instruct us.

Which areas do you cover?
We are based in Doncaster and cover the wider DN postcode area, including Bessacarr, Bawtry, Tickhill, Armthorpe, Hatfield, Thorne, Mexborough, Conisbrough, Rossington, Balby, Wheatley, Sprotbrough, Edenthorpe and Cantley. We can also discuss coverage for surrounding areas including Rotherham, Barnsley and Sheffield.

Do you work for landlords, letting agents and housing associations?
Yes. We work with private landlords, letting agents, housing associations and other property professionals, providing damp and timber surveys and remedial works where required. Written reports can also be provided to help document damp and mould issues and the recommended course of action.

How quickly can you come out?
Survey availability depends on current demand and the nature of the enquiry. We aim to respond promptly to new enquiries, and urgent situations such as active leaks or property purchase deadlines can be discussed when you contact us. Call 07711 701779 or send details and photographs of the problem through our contact form and we will advise you on the next step.