Damp survey Surrey searches usually start the same way: a musty smell, peeling paint, mould on an outside wall, or a patch that never fully dries. It is tempting to assume the cause, but damp problems often overlap. Condensation can look like penetrating damp. A roof leak can mimic rising damp. This is why a proper survey matters. In this guide, we explain when to book a damp survey, what a surveyor checks, and what happens next.
If you already suspect damp and want an appointment, you can book directly here: Book a Damp Survey Surrey.
Why a damp survey is worth it
A damp survey does two things well. First, it identifies the most likely source of moisture. Second, it helps you avoid paying for the wrong fix. Many damp problems are treatable, but only if the root cause is addressed. Otherwise, you end up redecorating the same wall again and again.
For homeowners in older Surrey properties, this is particularly important. Solid walls, ageing render, historic pointing and changing ventilation patterns all affect how a building manages moisture. A survey puts the symptoms into context and gives you a clear plan.
When to book a damp survey in Surrey
A damp survey Surrey homeowners book early is usually cheaper than one booked after damage spreads. Consider arranging a survey if you notice:
- Black mould returning after cleaning, especially around windows and external corners
- Tide marks, crumbling skirting boards, or flaky plaster at low level
- Peeling wallpaper, bubbling paint, or a persistent damp smell
- Cold external walls that attract condensation in winter
- Localised damp patches that worsen after rainfall
- Any damp warning noted on a homebuyer report or building survey
If you want a quick checklist before booking, this guide is helpful: Signs of damp in a house.
What a damp surveyor should check
A survey should look beyond the internal patch and assess how moisture could be entering or forming. A good survey typically includes:
External checks
- Gutters, downpipes and gullies for leaks, blockages and overspill
- Brickwork condition, pointing, cracks and gaps around openings
- Render condition and hairline cracking that can allow water ingress
- Damp-proof course height and bridging risks (raised ground levels, debris, render bridging)
- Roofline details where accessible (flashings, valleys, chimneys)
Internal checks
- Moisture readings at different wall heights to identify patterns
- Salt contamination signs (which often show long-term moisture at low level)
- Ventilation and condensation risk in kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms
- Timber condition where damp may be contributing to decay
- Associated defects such as cracked plaster, failed seals, and cold bridges
If you would like a more detailed walk-through, see: What happens during a damp survey?
Condensation, rising damp or penetrating damp: what the survey is trying to confirm
Most residential surveys focus on three common sources. The symptoms overlap, so the pattern matters.
Condensation
Condensation usually shows as mould on cold surfaces, water droplets on windows, and damp behind furniture on outside walls. It is linked to humidity, heating patterns and ventilation. Practical ventilation guidance is available from the Energy Saving Trust: Home ventilation advice.
Penetrating damp
Penetrating damp often creates localised patches and can worsen after rainfall. The cause is commonly external: failing pointing, cracked render, leaking gutters or roof defects. Fixing the defect is the priority, and only then should internal finishes be repaired.
Rising damp
Rising damp tends to appear at low level and may show salt contamination, damaged skirtings and deteriorating plaster near the floor. A survey helps confirm whether this is true rising damp or another issue such as bridging, high ground levels, or internal condensation at the cold base of an external wall.
For service details and treatments, see: Damp proofing.
Typical costs and what affects the price
Costs vary depending on property size and complexity. As a general rule, a smaller property with one affected area is quicker to assess than a larger home with multiple elevations, extensions and mixed construction.
Independent cost guides often place damp survey fees in the region of £150 to £500, depending on scope. For a benchmark, you can review: Checkatrade damp survey cost guide.
The key is value, not just price. A survey that correctly identifies the cause can save you from paying for the wrong treatment, and that is where the real savings are made.
What happens after the damp survey?
Once the cause is identified, the next steps should be practical and staged. In most cases, the process looks like this:
- Stop the moisture source (repair defects, improve ventilation, address bridging or leaks).
- Apply the right treatment where required (for example, damp-proofing systems or condensation control).
- Restore internal finishes properly so the repair lasts (plaster systems, redecorating, joinery repairs).
If replastering is part of the plan, this guide explains timing clearly: When should you replaster after damp?. For broader plastering support, see: Plastering services.
Why Go2 for a damp survey in Surrey?
Go2 Property Services is built around survey-led diagnosis and long-term repairs. That means looking at the whole picture: damp, ventilation, insulation, render condition and internal finishes. It also means giving you clear next steps, rather than guessing or treating only the surface symptoms.
If you are ready to take action, the quickest route is here: Book a Damp Survey Surrey. If you have questions first, you can contact the team here: Contact Go2.
FAQs
Do I need a damp survey before buying a house?
If a survey mentions damp, or you can see mould, staining or damaged plaster, a specialist damp survey can help you understand risk and likely repair costs before you commit.
Will a damp survey tell me if it is condensation?
Yes. A proper damp survey considers ventilation, humidity and cold surfaces, and it checks whether the pattern fits condensation rather than water ingress.
How quickly can I book a damp survey in Surrey?
Availability varies, but you can request an appointment online. Use this page to get started: Book a Damp Survey Surrey.
Next step: If you are seeing signs of damp and want clarity, book a damp survey Surrey homeowners rely on for honest diagnosis and practical solutions: Book a Damp Survey Surrey.
