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Historic timber frame building in Lancashire

Damp Surveys

Comprehensive damp surveys of historic buildings across the northwest.

Bowland Surveyors undertakes detailed damp surveys of historic buildings throughout Lancashire and the surrounding counties. Our work frequently involves listed buildings, traditional stone cottages, victorian houses and other historic structures where modern damp-proofing approaches are often inappropriate.

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Generally, we do not undertake standalone pre-purchase damp surveys solely to satisfy lender requirements. Such inspections are typically carried out on a purely visual basis in order to avoid damage to the property. In our view, the information required in this regard is more appropriately addressed within the scope of an RICS Level 3 Building Survey – see our page on Listed and Historic Building Surveys.

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An invasive timber and damp survey provides owners of historic buildings with a detailed understanding of the underlying issues together with prioritised recommendations for repair and remediation.

 

Reports are prepared in accordance with the following guidance:

 

  • BS 7913 – Guide to the Conservation of Historic Buildings.

  • BS 5250 – Management of Moisture in Buildings.

  • BRE Digest 466 – Understanding Dampness.

 

Our investigations typically include:​

 

  • Detailed inspection of the external building envelope to identify potential sources of moisture ingress.

  • Characterisation of building materials to inform appropriate repair strategies.

  • Assessment of surface drainage and rainwater disposal systems.

  • Assessment of ground levels and their contribution to moisture ingress.

  • Evaluation of the wider building environment (e.g. tree cover, exposure, elevation) and its influence on moisture levels.

  • Assessment of the condition and integrity of the accessible structural timber elements within the building.

  • Identification of fungal decay, wood-boring beetle infestation, chemical damage and efflorescent salt contamination, together with an assessment of the resulting deterioration

  • Inspection of loft spaces and sub-floor voids where accessible.

  • Assessment of ventilation provisions throughout the building.

  • Borescope camera inspection of concealed voids.

  • Deep moisture content analysis of structural timber bearings where required.

  • Quantitative gravimetric moisture content analysis of masonry samples in accordance with BRE Digest 245.

  • Chemical analysis of masonry samples to determine hygroscopic salt content.

 

All of our findings are presented within a detailed report including annotated photography, clear diagnostic conclusions, and prioritised recommendations for repair and remediation appropriate for the historic nature of the building. Technical CAD drawings are also provided where required.

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