How to Deal With Damp: Types, Causes and Costs to Fix
Damp affects millions of UK homes and can cause serious health and structural problems if left untreated. Here is how to identify, treat and prevent damp.
Types of Damp
Rising damp — Moisture rises from the ground through walls due to a failed or missing damp-proof course (DPC). Look for tide marks, salts and peeling wallpaper up to 1m above floor level.
Penetrating damp — Water enters through the external walls, usually from defective pointing, cracked render, damaged guttering or leaking roofs. Appears as patches on internal walls.
Condensation — The most common type. Caused by excess moisture from cooking, bathing and drying clothes indoors without adequate ventilation. Leads to mould growth, especially on cold walls and around windows.
Damp Treatment Costs
| Treatment | Cost |
|---|---|
| Damp survey | £200–£400 |
| Damp-proof course (DPC) injection | £300–£1,000 per wall |
| Full DPC (3-bed semi) | £2,000–£5,000 |
| Tanking (basement) | £1,500–£5,000 |
| External repointing | £500–£2,000 |
| Condensation ventilation system | £200–£800 |
| Mould treatment | £100–£500 |
Prevention Tips
1. Improve ventilation — Open windows, use extractor fans, consider PIV (positive input ventilation) systems
2. Fix gutters and downpipes — Leaking gutters are a major cause of penetrating damp
3. Maintain pointing and render — Cracks let water in
4. Avoid drying clothes on radiators — Use a tumble dryer or outdoor line
5. Get a professional survey — Before treating damp, get an expert diagnosis to avoid wasting money on the wrong treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
Is damp covered by home insurance?
Can I treat damp myself?
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