Damp & mould inspections
Specialist pathology-led diagnosis — finding the real cause, not just treating the symptoms.
The problem with most damp reports
Damp and mould are among the most commonly misdiagnosed problems in UK buildings. The standard approach — a quick moisture meter reading followed by a recommendation for chemical injection or tanking — often treats the wrong problem entirely.
The result is expensive remediation work that doesn't solve the issue, and in some cases makes it worse. Homeowners and landlords are left out of pocket, and the damp returns.
We do things differently. Our inspections are built on building pathology — the rigorous, evidence-based discipline of understanding why buildings fail and how moisture moves through them.
What building pathology means in practice
Building pathology treats a damp problem the way a doctor treats a patient: by investigating the cause before prescribing a remedy. It draws on construction science, materials knowledge, and an understanding of how buildings behave across different seasons and conditions.
Our specialist knowledge in this area was developed working directly alongside Mike Parrett — one of the UK's most respected building pathologists, author of the definitive text on damp diagnosis, and a leading voice in challenging the myths that have long surrounded rising damp and chemical DPC treatments.
That experience shapes every inspection we carry out. We arrive with no preconceptions and no commercial interest in any particular outcome. We look at the evidence and tell you what we find.
Common causes we investigate
Damp has many causes, and they often present similarly. Accurate diagnosis requires a systematic investigation — not a guess based on a single reading.
Penetrating damp
Water ingress through defective roofs, gutters, downpipes, flashings, or external walls. Often misdiagnosed as rising damp.
Rising damp
Moisture drawn upward through masonry by capillary action. Frequently over-diagnosed — genuine cases are less common than the remediation industry suggests, and accurate identification requires careful investigation.
Condensation
Moisture from everyday living that condenses on cold surfaces. The most common cause of mould growth in modern and retrofitted properties.
Interstitial condensation
Condensation forming within wall, roof, or floor structures — invisible from the surface but potentially damaging over time.
Plumbing leaks
Hidden leaks from pipes, waste systems, or appliances that are frequently overlooked or attributed to structural damp.
Thermal bridging
Cold spots in the building fabric where heat loss is concentrated, creating localised conditions that promote mould growth.
Inadequate ventilation
Insufficient air movement — particularly in kitchens, bathrooms, and roof spaces — that allows moisture to accumulate.
How an inspection works
- 01
Initial discussion
We'll talk through what you've noticed, how long it's been present, and any previous work that's been carried out. Context matters.
- 02
On-site investigation
A thorough inspection of the affected areas and the wider building fabric. We use calibrated moisture meters, thermal imaging where appropriate, and careful visual assessment.
- 03
Cause identification
We establish the most likely cause — or causes — based on the evidence gathered, not on assumptions about what damp 'usually' is.
- 04
Written report
A clear, report with photographs, moisture readings, identified cause(s), and targeted remediation recommendations. Delivered within 5 working days.
What your report includes
- Identified cause(s) with supporting evidence and photographs
- Calibrated moisture readings and their interpretation
- Assessment of any previous remediation work
- Targeted remediation recommendations
- Clear guidance on what to avoid — including unnecessary treatments
- Follow-up support to discuss the findings
Who this service is for
Home buyers
Concerned about damp flagged in a survey, or wanting independent verification before exchange.
Homeowners
Dealing with persistent damp or mould that previous treatments haven't resolved.
Landlords
Needing an independent assessment to understand and address damp complaints from tenants.
Solicitors & insurers
Requiring an expert report for dispute resolution, litigation support, or insurance claims.
Book a damp inspection
Get in touch to discuss your situation and receive a fixed fee quote. We cover residential and commercial properties.
Contact us