We often come across damp issues which occur only after building alterations have been done. Here are some common causes for damp that we have found in some of our inspections.
 Damp Proof Course |
 Air Bricks |
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| When changes are made to a building the Damp Proof Course (often abbreviated to DPC – a horizontal barrier in a wall designed to resist moisture rising) is sometimes damaged resulting in rising damp. Lateral damp occurs when an addition is made to the house where the new floor level is higher than the existing one. (see diagram) | In houses with wooden flooring, air bricks provide ventilation in the floor cavity. If during renovations, they are plastered closed, moisture builds up in the floor cavity and results in damp. Our inspection report will tell you how these issues need to be fixed and what you can expect to pay for the repairs. |
The damp proof course or dpc is a physical barrier about 150mm thick and situated above internal floor levels inserted into the mortar course 150mm above external ground level. This dpc is an essential part of construction, particularly for building alterations or extensions and stops rising damp (dampness tracking up from the ground) and manifesting itself as dampness internally in your structure.
If you have similar problems, please contact us – we’d be glad to assist.