DMP: Damp Detective on Commercial Property in Tunbridge Wells
A trusted client (Landlord) approached us regarding the significant issues with damp in the basement of their tenanted commercial property.
Our specialist surveyor investigated the basement parts, high levels of damp, condensation and moisture build-up.
Damp occurs when there is excess unwanted moisture in the air that has no way of escaping. Furthermore damp problems tend to be at their worse during the winter months if left unresolved. The most common factors that allow moisture into a building include poor ventilation, leaking roof, failed damp proof course and plumbing problems.
Like with this property damp problems in walls are often noticed once internal damp symptoms become apparent. Such as damp patches, black mould growth, hygroscopic salt contamination and crumbling plaster.
Types of Damp
- Rising Damp
- Penetrating Damp
- Condensation Damp
- Interstitial Condensation
Importantly, prolonged exposure to high levels of indoor dampness can reduce lung function and cause chronic health problems such as asthma.
Further investigation highlighted many original sources of ventilation had been closed and shut off. Including closing chimney flues and installing air tight uPVC windows without background ventilation provisions.
However a simple remedy is to increase the cross ventilation within the space to enable the moist air to be vented externally.
Our specialist surveyors are highly trained in carrying out surveys to identify any underlying problems and make recommendations.
Contact our experts to discuss your project and building surveying needs, discover how we can assist you.
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