Damp & Timber Survey

Dry rot (Serpula lacrymans) is the more serious of the two and can spread through masonry and behind plaster in search of timber to attack, even crossing non-timber materials. It requires a sustained moisture source to start but can continue growing once established with less moisture than wet rot. Wet rot (including species like Coniophora puteana — cellar fungus) remains localised to the damp area and does not spread through masonry. Both require the moisture source to be eliminated as part of the treatment, but dry rot demands more extensive remedial work including removal of affected timber, chemical treatment of surrounding masonry and improved ventilation. Our survey will correctly identify which type is present — misdiagnosis is common and can lead to inadequate treatment.

The severity of woodworm depends on the species of beetle, the extent of the infestation and whether it is active or historic. The Common Furniture Beetle (Anobium punctatum) is the most frequently encountered and, in most cases, causes limited structural damage if the infestation is light and confined to floorboards or joinery. However, Deathwatch Beetle (Xestobium rufovillosum) is far more serious and can cause significant structural weakening in large-section hardwoods such as oak beams — it is often found in older properties, churches and period homes. Powderpost Beetle (Lyctus brunneus) attacks the sapwood of hardwoods and can cause rapid deterioration of newer timber flooring, furniture and joinery. A key part of our survey is distinguishing active infestation from historic damage, identifying the beetle species involved and advising on whether chemical treatment or timber replacement is needed. In many cases, old flight holes are mistaken for an active problem, and unnecessary chemical treatments are prescribed.

Our Damp & Timber Survey starts from £350 plus VAT for a typical three-bedroom house. The exact price depends on the size, age and construction of the property, as well as the complexity of the issues being investigated. Larger properties, period homes with multiple areas of concern, or properties requiring extensive floor void access will cost more due to the additional time required on site. We provide a fixed-price quote within 24 hours of your enquiry — the price we quote is the price you pay, with no hidden extras and no travel surcharges within our seven counties. Importantly, combining damp and timber inspections into one survey is considerably more cost-effective than commissioning two separate specialist reports.

The on-site inspection typically takes between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the size of the property, the number of areas to inspect and the complexity of the damp and timber issues identified. A typical three-bedroom semi-detached house takes around 2 to 3 hours. Larger properties, period homes with multiple damp-affected areas, or properties with extensive suspended timber floors requiring detailed sub-floor inspection will take longer — up to 4 hours or more. After the inspection, the surveyor compiles the report, which is delivered within 5 working days. We never rush the inspection; thoroughness is essential for an accurate diagnosis.

Yes — and we actively encourage it. Every client who instructs us for a Damp & Timber Survey is welcome to speak directly to the surveyor after receiving the report. Damp and timber defects can be complex, and the rectification recommendations often involve tradespeople, treatment specialists and building work, so understanding the report fully is important. You can call to discuss any finding, ask about treatment options, or clarify anything that is unclear. There is no charge for this follow-up conversation and no call centre — you speak to the surveyor who inspected your property.

It depends on the specific findings in your Level 2 Home Survey. A RICS Level 2 surveyor will note visible signs of damp and may recommend further investigation — but they do not carry out the detailed moisture profiling, timber assessment or fungal decay diagnosis that a dedicated Damp & Timber Survey provides. If your Level 2 report uses wording such as "further investigation recommended" or "specialist damp and timber report advised", then commissioning a Damp & Timber Survey is sensible. It gives you the detailed information you need to negotiate with the vendor, budget for remedial work and instruct the right contractors. We can often review your existing survey report and advise whether a specialist follow-up is warranted — just get in touch.