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Damp proofing is a way to protect your home from unwanted moisture. Damp proofing involves using specialist equipment, materials and treatment to stop damp from spreading through walls, floors or ceilings.

Damp proofing aims to prevent water from entering your homes structure, which can lead to unwanted mould, damage and decay within your property.

There are different types of damp, all of which need its own treatment. The most common types of damp in the UK are:

• Rising damp
• Penetrating damp
• Condensation

Common damp proofing methods to treat these kinds of damp include:

• A damp proof course (DPC): A layer of waterproof material that's often injected into walls, blocking moisture from rising from the ground
• Damp proof membrane (DPM): A plastic sheet or coating that forms a barrier against moisture, used in walls, floors and basements.
• Tanking systems: Waterproof coatings applied to basement walls to keep water out
• Ventilation systems: For treating condensation by increasing airflow

A professional damp survey in Orkney usually costs between £150 and £350.

Some local damp proofing companies near you may offer a free initial assessment, especially if you're likely to go ahead with treatment.

A full survey will pinpoint the cause of damp, assess any structural risk, and outline your best treatment options.

Yes, especially if you’re buying a property or spotting signs like mould, musty smells, or stained walls. A damp proof survey in Orkney gives you a clearer picture of what’s going on, so you don’t end up paying for unnecessary work or missing underlying issues.

It’s also a must if you need official paperwork for insurance or mortgage purposes.

Rising damp tends to show up as damp patches or "tide marks" about a metre from the floor.

Other signs include peeling paint or wallpaper, crumbling plaster, or rotting skirting boards.

A damp survey in Orkney can confirm if it's rising damp or something else like condensation or penetrating damp.

Most damp proofing treatments in Orkney can be completed in anything from a few days to a couple of weeks.

Here’s a rough guide:

• Injection damp proofing (for rising damp): Usually takes 2–7 days, depending on how much wall needs treating.
• Tanking or waterproof coatings (often for basements): Typically 5–10 days, including drying time.
• Membrane installation (in basements or walls): Around 1–2 weeks, depending on complexity.
• Condensation control (e.g. ventilation upgrades): Often done in a day or two.

Some treatments, like DPC injection, need time to dry out before you can re-plaster or decorate, so while the main job might be quick, allow extra time for drying and finishing.

Your damp proofer in Orkney should give you a clear timescale upfront.

DIY damp proofing kits are available, and ventilation fixes can help with light condensation. But for rising or penetrating damp, it's safer to call in a damp treatment specialist.

Poorly applied DIY treatments often lead to repeat problems and higher costs in the long run.

It's a good idea to find a checked damp proof company near you with the right tools, experience and insurance to get it done right.

In a flat, damp issues often involve condensation, leaking pipes or penetrating damp from shared walls or poorly sealed windows. Treatments may include improved ventilation, applying damp proof paint, or using a damp proof membrane on affected walls.

If the issue originates from a neighbouring flat or communal space, you may need to involve the building management or freeholder.

In houses, particularly older ones, rising damp is a common issue.

Treatment typically involves installing or renewing a damp proof course (DPC), injecting damp proof cream into brickwork, or applying a waterproof membrane.

For basements, tanking systems are often used. A checked damp proofer in Orkney can recommend the best fix for your home layout and build type.

Not always. Most policies won’t cover damp unless it’s the result of a specific event, like a burst pipe.

Insurers often view damp as a maintenance issue. Check your policy wording or speak to your insurer for clarity.

If you’re in doubt, it's a good idea to contact a damp proofer in your local Orkney area and ask them to write a report to help support your case.

Let your landlord or letting agent know as soon as you spot any signs. Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act, landlords are responsible for tackling serious issues like damp and mould.

If they don’t act, you can contact your local council. Taking photos and keeping written records of your complaint is a good idea.

As a landlord, it’s your legal responsibility to provide a safe and habitable home. If tenants report damp, act quickly.

Arrange a professional damp survey to assess the cause, then hire a checked damp proofing contractor near Orkney to carry out any necessary work. Keep records of inspections and repairs to avoid disputes.

Building regulations require that all new builds and extensions in Orkney have appropriate damp proofing measures to prevent rising damp and moisture ingress.

If you’re altering structural walls, converting basements or replacing DPCs, your contractor may need to comply with Part C of the Building Regulations. It’s best to hire a damp proofing contractor who understands local rules in Orkney and can ensure compliance.

Most damp proofing work in Orkney doesn’t require planning permission.

However, if your property is listed or in a conservation area, you may need special consent. Always check with your local authority or ask your damp proof contractor to advise you.

It's not required, but it’s a smart move. If buyers suspect damp during a viewing or if it gets flagged by their own survey, it could affect your sale or lead to price renegotiations.

Getting a damp survey in Orkney before listing your home shows transparency and helps build buyer confidence. You’ll also be better prepared for any work that needs doing.