Professional Damp Surveys in Brighton & Sussex

A damp survey is a thorough, non-invasive inspection of your property carried out by a qualified surveyor to identify the type, source, and severity of any moisture problems. Unlike a general home survey, a specialist damp survey uses calibrated electronic moisture meters, salt analysis kits, and thermal imaging to distinguish between rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation — three very different issues that demand very different treatments.

Many homeowners in Brighton and across Sussex live in period properties built with solid walls and lime mortar. These older construction methods behave differently from modern cavity-wall builds, and misdiagnosis is extremely common. A qualified damp surveyor understands how traditional buildings breathe and can tell whether elevated moisture readings are caused by a failed damp-proof course, bridged external ground levels, blocked air bricks, or simply poor ventilation.

Getting an accurate diagnosis matters because the wrong treatment wastes money and can make things worse. Injecting a chemical damp-proof course into a wall that actually suffers from condensation, for example, will not solve the problem and may trap moisture inside the masonry. A proper survey saves you from unnecessary work and gives you a clear, prioritised action plan.

Our reports are mortgage-lender compliant and include photographic evidence, moisture readings, and detailed recommendations. Whether you are buying a property, concerned about damp patches, or need a report for insurance purposes, a professional survey is always the sensible first step.

Every survey begins with a detailed external inspection. We examine ground levels, drainage, pointing, render condition, guttering, and roof coverings before we even step inside. Many damp problems originate outside the building, and understanding the external envelope is critical to an accurate diagnosis.

Inside, we use calibrated Protimeter and Tramex moisture meters to map moisture distribution across every affected wall and floor. We take surface and depth readings, check for hygroscopic salts, and assess ventilation rates. Where necessary we use thermal imaging to reveal hidden cold bridges and moisture paths that are invisible to the naked eye.

You receive a comprehensive written report — typically within 48 hours — that explains exactly what we found, what is causing it, and what needs to be done to fix it. We include annotated photographs, a moisture map, and a prioritised schedule of remedial works with transparent pricing. There is never any pressure to proceed, and we are happy to discuss the findings with your solicitor, mortgage lender, or builder.