What Happens During an Independent Damp Survey?

Most people booking their first independent damp survey aren’t sure what to expect. How long does it take? What does the surveyor actually do? What will the report look like? This guide walks you through the entire process.

Before the Survey: Booking and Preparation

When you contact Richard Bull, the first step is a short conversation about your property — what you’re seeing, where it is, how long it’s been there, and what type of property you have. This helps determine the right type of survey and gives some initial context before the visit.

You don’t need to do anything to prepare the property specifically, but it helps to have access to all areas — including loft space, basement or cellar if applicable, and outbuildings connected to the main structure. If you have any previous survey reports, damp proofing guarantees, or builder correspondence, having those available is useful.

On the Day: What the Surveyor Does

A standard residential damp survey takes approximately 2.5 to 4 hours depending on the property size and complexity.

External Inspection First

The survey always starts outside. Richard will walk the full perimeter of the property examining gutters, downpipes and rainwater goods; roof and chimney condition; walls, pointing, and render; ground levels relative to the DPC; drainage; and extensions and lean-tos where they meet the main structure. This external stage is critical — in the majority of damp cases, the cause is external.

Internal Inspection

The internal survey covers every room methodically: moisture meter readings at multiple points on all walls; professional thermal imaging to identify cold spots, thermal bridges, hidden moisture, and areas of concern invisible to the naked eye; mould assessment; ventilation assessment; plumbing checks; and timber inspection where accessible.

Richard will talk you through findings as he goes. You’re welcome to ask questions throughout — this isn’t a secret process.

Loft and Subfloor (Where Accessible)

If there’s a loft, it will be inspected for roof covering defects, condensation on the underside of the roof deck, and any water ingress staining. Where there’s a suspended timber floor, airbrick provision and any evidence of subfloor moisture will be checked.

The Report

The written report typically arrives within 2–3 working days of the survey. It includes: a clear plain-English summary of findings; detailed diagnosis with supporting evidence; annotated photographs; moisture readings with context; thermal images where relevant; staged and prioritised remedial guidance; and standards references where relevant (ANSI/IICRC S520, Building Regulations Approved Document F, SPAB guidance, BS 5250).

The report is written to be understood by a homeowner, but is also suitable for solicitors, mortgage lenders, insurers, and housing associations. It is not a quote for remedial work — it is a professional independent diagnosis.

After the Report

Richard is available to discuss the report findings after delivery. If your solicitor, lender, or insurer has questions, he can respond to those directly. If you go on to commission remedial work, the report gives any contractor a clear brief — which also means you’re less likely to be oversold unnecessary treatments.

Book a Survey in Derby, Nottingham or Leicester

Independent damp surveys are available across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, and the wider Midlands.

📞 07983 550 662
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