Rising damp guide

Selling a House With Damp

Fresh paint may hide staining for a short while, but it does not answer the question a buyer or surveyor will eventually ask: where is the moisture coming from?

A damp specialist discussing low-level wall damp with a homeowner in a British living room.
Low-level damp needs proper checking, because the visible staining on the wall does not by itself prove the cause.

Get a defensible diagnosis

If the defect is a leaking pipe or high paving, that is useful to know before commissioning damp-proofing that may not be needed.

Keep repair information

Invoices, photographs and specifications can help explain what was found and what was done. Vague statements such as “damp treated” tell a future buyer very little.

Allow repaired walls to dry

Rushing to decorate heavy masonry can lead to staining, peeling or trapped moisture that raises fresh questions during a viewing.

Do not overstate guarantees

If treatment is guaranteed, check exactly what the document covers and whether it transfers to a new owner.

Want somebody local to look at it?

If you would rather have the damp investigated in person, you can use our help page to describe the problem and decide what sort of specialist you need.

Get local help