Damp Surveys
When good buildings go bad, it's often the work of a Building Surveyor to diagnose the problem and propose a long-term, effective resolution. A successful surveyor must have a thorough knowledge of investigative techniques and a sound understanding of building pathology.
At J Browne Surveys, we believe building pathology can be defined as a holistic approach to studying and understanding buildings, and in particular, building defects and associated remedial action. Our damp surveys are based on a detailed knowledge of how a building is designed, constructed, used and changed and the various ways by which its structural, material and environmental conditions can be affected.
Our remedies deal with the root cause of the problems associated with damp. We provide long term solutions by respecting the building's original design principles and using building materials (lime mortars etc.) appropriate for repair work, to help them breathe again.
We will never recommend the application of dense cement renders as this is inappropriate, unnecessary and causes irreversible damage to the walls it is applied to. So called ‘rising damp’ control systems serve only to mask problems.
It may be that during a damp survey it becomes apparent that a limited building survey may be required to investigate other issues which have come to light during the damp survey. In that case, and in consultation with the client, we would extend the damp survey to take in a limited condition survey for an agreed additional fee.
Our damp surveys start at £220.00 + VAT. Additional carbide and sample testing may be necessary, subject to the owner's permission being obtained.
J Browne Surveys follows BS 7913: 2013 - "Guide to the conservation of historic buildings" when undertaking damp surveys.
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British Standard BS 7913:2013 contains numerous references to ‘competence’ in that surveys should be “Carried out by competent persons with knowledge of traditional materials, construction techniques and decay processes”.
This experience can't be gained by short or in-house courses. It goes on to say, “Unbiased advice from competent persons based on best practice should be sought…”