Damp proofing a basement flat

[hellz85]

Hi,
I am a first time buyer who has just had a building survey back on a leasehold basement flat we are looking to buy. The survey reports that there are traces of damp in the flat in two areas and recommends obtaining a quote from a specialist damp proofer. According to the survey some damp proofing works have been done in the past but remedial work is now required. The flat is an old one (circa 1870) and I am aware that some damp is inevitable but the way the survey is phrased indicates that the problem needs looking at before any purchase. I wondered if anyone has any advice as to the potential costs involved in such work and whether liability generally rests with a leaseholder or a freeholder? Obviously we can't really go ahead with the purchase until we have more of an idea of what we are looking at.
Thanks in advance

 

[Blagard]

I can't advise on who has liability for the problem, that is something your solicitor should be able to advise on. Additionally if previous work was done there my be a guarantee that needs checking out. If there is one you need to know if it will be honoured! - The seller may be able to answer most of your questions, just make sure it is documented if you go ahead.

Costs are impossible to advise without a proper inspection and specifics on the nature of the dampness.

You are right to be concerned. Unfortunately I doubt the forum will be able to help you other than suggest what you might need to do next.

Be aware that basement damp problems are notoriously difficult to deal with, especially if work has already been done and is in some way defective.

 

[mointainwalker]

What kind of a survet have you had done ? Most non-specialist surveyors are renowned for using a moisture=meter that is calibrated for wood and not suitable for walls.

It is also as good as a standard feature of their reports that they "recommend further specialist investigation" to cover their backside.

Leaving aside the issue of remedial work, if you contact a damp-proofing company it is as good as certain that they will recommend further treatment.

Instead why not find an independent damp-proofing surveyor who doesn't carry out any treatment and is therefore unbiased.

 

[noseall]

Is the flat subterranean i.e. below ground?

If so, then i suggest you get used to the word 'damp' because it will become your closest companion.

Forget damp specialists because all they will do is point out the obvious and offer you promises they bare unlikely to keep.