Rising Damp
Rising damp is caused by moisture travelling up through masonry from the ground, usually where a damp proof course (DPC) has failed, been bridged or is missing altogether. It can lead to damaged plaster, salt deposits, peeling paint and musty smells.
At Precision South East, we carry out clear, practical damp investigations and provide the right treatment - without guesswork. If you suspect rising damp, we can inspect the affected walls, identify contributing factors and recommend a cost-effective solution.
Common signs of rising damp
- Tide marks or staining on internal walls (often up to 1m high)
- White powdery salts on plaster or brickwork
- Peeling paint, bubbling wallpaper or crumbling skirting boards
- Damp smells at ground floor level
How we treat rising damp
Every property is different, so we match the treatment to the cause.
- Damp survey & diagnosis - checking internal moisture patterns and external ground levels.
- DPC injection - installing a chemical damp proof course where appropriate.
- Bridging fixes - reducing external ground levels or removing debris bridging the DPC.
- Replastering - salt-resistant render/plaster systems where contaminated plaster has failed.
- Ventilation improvements - if condensation is also contributing.
Not sure if it's rising damp or something else? We'll explain what we find and outline the next steps in plain English.
Case study 1: Rising damp treatment & replastering (ground floor living room)
A homeowner contacted us after repeated paint failure and crumbling skirting boards on an external wall. Moisture readings and visible salts suggested rising damp, made worse by external paving levels bridging the DPC.
- We advised lowering the external ground level to remove bridging.
- A new chemical DPC was installed along the affected wall.
- Salt-contaminated plaster was removed and replaced with a salt-resistant system.
- Skirting boards were replaced and the room was left ready for decorating.
Customer feedback:
"Brilliant service from start to finish. Clear explanation, tidy work and the wall has fully dried out. Highly recommended."
Case study 2: Rising damp survey & targeted repairs (terraced property)
We were called to investigate damp patches at the base of a party wall and hallway. The issue turned out to be a mix of bridged DPC and damaged internal plaster.
- We carried out moisture testing and checked external ground levels.
- The DPC was bridged by a raised path; we recommended lowering the level and improving drainage.
- We repaired localised plaster damage with a suitable salt-resistant finish.
- We advised on drying times and decoration options.
Customer feedback:
"Very honest and practical. They didn't try to oversell - just fixed what was needed and explained everything clearly."
FAQs - Rising damp
Is rising damp always caused by a failed DPC?
Not always. Many "rising damp" issues are actually caused by bridging (ground level too high), leaking gutters, or condensation. That's why we inspect thoroughly before recommending treatment.
Do you always need replastering after a DPC injection?
If plaster is contaminated with salts, it can continue to fail even after the wall begins drying. In many cases, a salt-resistant replastering system is the best long-term fix.
How long does it take for walls to dry out?
Drying times vary depending on wall thickness, moisture levels and ventilation. As a general rule, allow several months for full drying after treatment, but the damage is prevented from getting worse immediately.
What areas do we come out to investigate rising damp?
Our technicians can investigate the reason for damp and carry out any rising damp services required in Kent, London, Surrey & West Sussex. See our areas covered page for more details.
Can you provide a written quote?
Yes - after inspection we can provide a clear written quote for any recommended work, including DPC installation and replastering.
Need help with suspected rising damp?
Get a free rising damp quote
For damp surveys, rising damp treatment and replastering, call 0800 955 3001 or email info@precisionsoutheast.co.uk for a FREE quote.
