Rising Damp

Building elements in direct contact with the ground, such as walls and floors, are particularly susceptible to moisture movement through capillary action – ‘Rising Damp’. This can lead to a range of detrimental effects, including structural degradation, mould growth, and poor indoor air quality.
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Health Concerns

Dampness and mould can cause poor indoor air quality and respiratory illness, infections, allergenic or immunological illness, and nonallergic illness. Another health effect associated with structural dampness is the presence of bacteria in an indoor environment. Bacteria require water to grow and multiply and certain species can cause disease in humans, thus the intrusion of water into an indoor environment can place the health of occupants at risk from bacterial infections.

How to look for Rising Damp
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One of the initial signs of damp is the smell. If you pick up on that damp, stagnant air, then it’s worth investigating further. Other indicators may include mould, flaky paint, or even just the general quality and condition of the building, but what you can see in a property isn’t always conclusive. For example, you might detect something visually, but it could just be a ventilation issue.

If you suspect a case of Rising Damp, we recommend you get it tested by a professional, and they will advise accordingly.

Damp Proofing

Rising Damp can be permanently eradicated from a property, but it’s not generally something that’s covered by home insurance, so, you will need to check carefully. 
Damp Proof Course (DPC) and Damp Proof Membrane (DPM) are two important elements in building construction that play a vital role in preventing Rising Damp. Their presence ensures the durability and integrity of buildings by preventing dampness of walls and floors.

Damp Proof Course

Is a continuous horizontal barrier integrated within the masonry wall construction. Its primary function is to stop the upward capillary rise of moisture from the ground into the building elements above. This prevents water migration through tiny pores within the wall material.

Damp Proof Membrane
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Is a sheet material laid horizontally beneath floor slabs or other elements in direct contact with the ground. Its primary function is to prevent moisture transmission from the ground into the building elements above.

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