The average cost of an independent damp survey is between £200 to £300. Prices start from roughly £160 and can go as high as £330 or more depending on the size of the house.
Costs of Damp Survey
We surveyed 64 damp proofing companies across the UK for a damp survey and report.
| UK Average | Low - High End | |
|---|---|---|
| Damp Survey from Contractor Surveyor Not Independent) | £90 | £55 - £130 |
| Independent, Damp Cost Survey (2 Bed) | £200 | £165 - £240 |
| Independent, Damp Cost Survey (3 Bed) | £250 | £200 - £275 |
| Independent, Damp Cost Survey (4 Bed) | £295 | £240 - £330 |
I’ve Received a Free/Cheaper Quote. Is It Legitimate?
You’ll find contractors offer free damp survey and then who remove the survey fee once the work is carried out.
If they use a local professional, CSRT qualified, but non-independent surveyor, services will range from £50-£120. Of course, there are plenty of excellent companies that work this way.
However, remember these surveyors aren’t independent and the report may exaggerate what’s needed.
Many remedial treatment companies may then charge four-figure sums for treatment which in most cases is not necessary. Often work can be done by your local builder for much cheaper.
If a contractor tells you that you need a chemical damp proof course, then beware – they’re usually a waste of time.
If you plan on selling your home, ensure you get a full survey report from an independent, qualified surveyor.
The damp survey report may be ignored by mortgage lenders if the report is performed by a contractor who lacks the necessary certification.
If you do choose to remember that they could struggle to give impartial and independent advice. Ask lots of questions, check third party reviews and get multiple contractor quotes to ensure you aren’t getting scammed.
Types of Damp
It’s well worth the effort to educate yourself on how to spot damp so that you’re somewhat educated about what could be wrong with your home before getting the damp survey. You’ll hopefully be able to spot if a contractor is charging you for things they shouldn’t.
- Condensation damp is simply moisture that is caused by everyday living. Moisture is absorbed into the home when it’s warm. When it cools, it condenses on cool surfaces. It can be identified via damaged plaster, black mould and moisture on windows. This is more prevalent during the autumn and winter months.
- Penetrating damp is caused by rain penetrating into the house. This is usually through to cracks in the masonry or broken roof tiles. It can be identified by damp patches on the floor, walls and ceilings.
- Rising damp is caused by water from the ground rising through the walls. It can usually be identified with a ‘tide mark’ along the wall. Common signs also include wet skirting boards and floorboards, crumbling plaster and peeling wallpaper towards the bottom of the wall.
Factors Affecting Cost
Contractors and independent consultants usually have fixed prices, but there are a few things that can alter the price.
- How close is the property to the contractor? Contractors often have a standard survey area within which they work. If it falls outside of the radius, prices will increase slightly. The fee applied differs from contractor to contractor, but some companies surveyed charged up to £60 extra.
- Does the subfloor need inspection? If carpets or fixed flooring need to be removed, this will incur extra costs as a joiner may be needed on site.
- Where in the UK do you live? Usually, there are higher living costs and overheads in the south, particularly in London. Expect to pay 10-20% extra in London and the south-east areas, which can push prices up to £350. In other areas, you can get an accredited, independent surveyor for as little as £150.
- Need a report within 24 hours? If you are in a hurry, then same-day or next-day reporting costs an extra £50 or so.
Get Prices on Damp Surveys Near You
We’ve done our best to give you a good idea of what you can expect to pay for a damp survey.
However, our guides are not a substitute for a fixed written quote specifically for you.
We work with all the best damp surveying experts ready to price your job. Get free, no-obligation quotes in your local area and compare prices using the form below.
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