Damp and Timber Report For Older Properties

We are long term members of Trust Mark and a member of the BWA. CHAS accredited contractor. In addition, all of our surveyors are trained to the high standards of the PCA (Property Care Association).

Damp and Timber Report

If you are thinking of buying or selling an older property and it doesn’t have a current damp proofing or timber treatment guarantee, you would be well advised to have it surveyed by a  Property Care Association (PCA) qualified damp & timber surveyor. Maybe this is a requirement of your home buyers report, or your lender because the RICS surveyor considers there may be a problem. If any of these are the case, your lender has probably insisting that a more in-depth survey has to be carried out by a specialist PCA company, such as Tapco HomeDry Ltd

Why is a Damp or Timber Survey So Important?

An RICS building survey rarely includes lifting flooring or floorboards so it is not an in-depth investigation, Although having another survey carried out may seem like an inconvenience, it is in your best interest to know exactly what remedial work is required and how much it is going cost ideally before you exchange contracts. This way you  will have the oppotunity to renegotiate your offer and the repairs can possibly be undertaken before you move in.

Tapco HomeDry investigations are thorough and where possible will include lifting floorboards and inspecting and probing the flooring and roof timbers to test for decay. We will also take random, surface moisture readings to the accessible walls, to test the levels of moisture and report on what has caused any damp problem. Some of the defects we report on are items such as Woodworm, Wet-Rot, Dry-Rot, Rising Damp, Condensation and all aspects of Penetrating Damp, from below the ground to the roof and anywhere in-between, all of which need to be prevented.

Risks of Ignoring the Problem

Unresolved damp and timber defects can lead to significant structural deterioration, including damage to floor joists, roof timbers, and wall integrity. Persistent moisture encourages dry rot, wet rot, and woodworm infestation, while also increasing the risk of mould growth that can impact indoor air quality and occupant health. In the long term, these issues can cause substantial repair costs and lower your property market value.

Benefits of a Professional Survey

A comprehensive damp and timber survey carried out by qualified surveyors uses moisture meters, visual inspection, and timber testing to accurately diagnose problems. Early detection allows for targeted remedial treatment, preventing costly damage and safeguarding your property’s structural safety. With a detailed inspection report, you can make informed decisions for property purchase, renovation, or long-term maintenance planning.

Survey TypeCoverage & FocusBest For
RICS HomeBuyer Report (Level 2)Visual inspection of accessible areas, condition ratings, basic advice on damp and timber, optional valuation and insurance rebuild cost.Modern or conventional homes in reasonable condition needing a general overview.
RICS Building Survey (Level 3)In-depth structural assessment, detailed defect analysis, repair options, may include some invasive checks and cost guidance.Older, large, altered, or unusual properties, or when major works are planned.
Specialist Damp & Timber SurveyFocused assessment of moisture, rot, woodworm, and decay using moisture meters and invasive diagnostics where needed.When damp or timber issues are suspected or identified in other surveys; provides precise diagnosis and treatment advice.

Why you are safe with us?

We have been continuously trading since 1971 and our surveyors are qualified to the high standards of the Property Care Association (PCA). Their qualifications, combined with the company’s vast amount of training and experience, mean you can be confident you have chosen a company you can trust. We do not pay our surveyors commission and for your further piece of mind, we are a certified ISO 9001:2015 quality management company, a long term member of the PCA (Property Care Association), a member of the BWA (Basement Waterproofing Association) and rated as ‘Excellent’ by Trustpilot. For your piece of mind, for a single premium our guarantees can be protected by Guarantee Protection Insurance (GPI)

Book a survey appointment today
Call: 0800 195 9878

Tapco