Can anyone help me with this damp problem? (Photos Attached)

[brooky_agb]

We started digging down... I'm going to do this all the way around making sure the water runs off. If it helps we'll add some pebbles as a french drain. There is a block of concrete to the left. I don't know why but I think I'll have to hire a machine to get it out.

I think we have got to the first "step" of foundations. I assume it steps out from there.

Good plan any tips?

 

[JohnD]

the concrete block is probably round a drain/sewer pipe

don't dig it up unless, after burrowing round it, you have reason to believe the pipe is broken and has got to be replaced.

 

[brooky_agb]

Great advice. I'll open the near(ish) manhole cover. I think if there are pipes there then they are redundant now. Thanks.