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Rising damp and the damage it can cause - our guidance

July 22, 2024

Rising damp is a common problem in many households across the UK. So what are the warning signs that there is a damp issue in your household or business? In this blog post, we aim to give guidance on what rising damp is, how to spot it, the damage it may cause and how to prevent its occurrence.

Rising damp is a common term used to describe damp issues in a property. It is caused by rising groundwater which causes moisture to move and affect walls and flooring. This is usually seen in older buildings due to no damp proofing. Damp proofing and a damp-proof course (DPC) is essential to preventing this. A DPC is a waterproof material, usually made from plastic or creams, that is inserted 150mm above external ground level in order to prevent groundwater affecting the property.

How to Spot Rising Damp

There are many cautionary signs of rising damp. It is vital to know how to spot these signs in order to avoid more damage being caused. If damp is left untreated, structural damage, health issues and mould growth can all occur. Below are the most evident signs to keep an eye on:

peeling wallpaper
odorous damp smell
water marks travelling up walls
raised or cupping floor coverings and skirting boards
plaster and paint becoming damaged or bubbling
stains and discoloration

How to Prevent Rising Damp

Once you learn how to spot the signs, it is easier to understand how to prevent damp issues. Below are our top tips for preventing damp and you can see our full list here.

Have an effective damp-proof course installed.
Install dehumidifiers to air out and ventilate.
Leave gaps between furniture and surfaces.
Install extractor fans in the bathroom and kitchen to remove any cooking or bathing moisture.
Book a leak detection or moisture diagnosis survey if you suspect damp is entering your home or business.
Conduct a salts test to determine the source of the water.
Improve the ventilation in your home by opening windows, installing trickle vents and keep these clear and unblocked.

Dangers of Untreated Rising Damp

If left alone, damp can cause severe structural damage to your property or business whilst also causing adverse health effects. One of the most prevalent dangers is mould. Mould is a naturally occurring fungus that thrives in warm, moist and dark environments. Black mould is the species most commonly found in households and it can cause both structural and health effects. Consequences of mould can be respiratory issues, allergic reactions, weakened immune system, lung infections and in the most extreme cases - serious illnesses and death. With regards to structural damage, mould can deteriorate and weaken building structures and materials leading to expensive repairs. Therefore, it is vital to prevent the damp so that secondary damage doesn’t occur.

If you are in need of assistance with rising damp in your property or business, call us on freephone 0800 030 4360 to see how we can help you today.

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