Problem:

Inspection was requested to verify the cause and extent of damp problems in the front ground floor bedroom. The wallpaper and some areas of plaster had been recently removed by the occupier, and there were visible areas of mould on the wall surfaces and spoiling in some locations. However, low levels of moisture were recorded in ‘pin mode’ on the electronic moisture meter.

Skirting boards were also tested for dampness and found an average moisture content of 11.7%wmc. At this level of dampness, the skirting boards were not at risk of decay.

Evidence of mould growth was noted on the interior surfaces of the external walls which, coupled with the low moisture reading of the structures would strongly indicate that condensation had been occurring in these locations. Considering all the evidence at the time of the survey, we recommended further invasive remedial work to ensure dry internal wall surfaces that would be capable of accepting a non-spoiling decorative finish.

There was also no extractor fan in the bathroom, further exacerbating the condensation problem.

The most cost-effective method of dealing with the condensation in these locations would be to line the internal wall with a product such as Iso-Therm.

The benefits of Iso-Therm were discussed during the inspection survey.