Damp Surveys Ltd

We would definitely recommend commissioning a damp survey from Simon Hitchens before undertaking any work related to signs of damp. We were concerned about some signs of damp which appeared during the winter in an area where we had had a treatment for rising damp 10 years ago. The company that did the work has since ceased trading so we looked for another source of help. We saw recommendations of Simon on social media and read what he had to say about rising damp, and the way it is overdiagnosed, and decided to get him to do a survey before we took further action. Simon analysed the problem using various methods, including hygrometers which we installed and are still using. We were pleased to find that we do not have rising damp and that there are some relatively simple steps we could start immediately with beneficial effects. He has also given us advice for the longer term. We initially found some of Simon's explanations a little too technical for our level of understanding, but are very pleased at his response when we raised this and he translated some of the graphs into plain English for us.

Simon was extremely knowledgeable and provided excellent analysis and a comprehensive and actionable report on how to solve some damp issues. Highly recommended indeed.

We have had a very longstanding problem with visible damp patches on one of the chimney breasts in our Victorian house. We sought advice from several contractors and eventually decided to get the chimney capped and vented. This made absolutely no difference to the damp problem. Over the last three years we’ve probably sought advice from around six contractors. None of whom could come up with a convincing diagnosis of the problem, nor credible remedies. I found Damp Surveys Ltd via a random Google search. I was immediately impressed by the administration, which was efficient and seamless. The survey process itself was excellent. Simon swiftly diagnosed the problems and was able to explain them in a clear and simple manner, which we could readily understand. Simon’s explanations of the likely solutions were also set out very helpfully. Simon also offered other advice on reducing condensation in the house. Overall, we were extremely happy with the outcomes of the survey.

Simon came to our house to investigate a damp patch on the chimney breast in a top bedroom. We had already had roof and chimney work undertaken which had not solved the problem. Immediately Simon appears to have identified the root cause. His measurements of the damp appear to confirm his analysis. After this he looked at every room in our house to check for problems. This was not expected and I felt this was very thorough, and in fact gave us other areas to address to prevent future possible problems. Less than two weeks later we have had a very thorough preliminary review with expected costings of different remedies of the problems. We had to wait some time for our inspection, as Simon is a busy person, but that was very worth doing. Now we have excellent suggestions for dealing with the damp patch and other potential problems. I would not hesitate to recommend Simon.

Having a damp survey completed by Simon has been a game changer. We had suffered from a smell of damp for several months, it was unpleasant and troubling but there was no sign of damp until some black mould appeared around the front door. Simon came and investigated what might be causing the damp. He was thorough, interested, keen to explain and gave us lots of good advice while he was with us and in the damp report with which he followed up. Following his advice has solved the damp problem in my home. The damp smell has gone and I could not be happier. I do not hesitate to wholeheartedly recommend Simon and Damp Surveys.

I recently purchased a ground floor Victorian flat and had a pre-purchase "independent" damp and timber survey done resulting in a cost of approx 5,000, the main cost being a chemical injection DPC. After researching how chemical DPC doesn't work, I came across Simon who was very knowledgeable and thorough. He identified the root cause of the issue instead of the quick fix. I had a few complex issues but Simon provided simple fixes which saved me thousands in the process. I even had a couple of questions after receiving the report which Simon answered promptly. Highly recommend.

Damp survey ltd undertook a survey april 2022. I found the service methodical and Simon is highly knowledgable, also happy to give simple tips along the way. The damp report is detailed, precise and action focussed which is exactly what I required. Recommend these services without hesitation.

I don't normally like to make these kinds of recommendations but in this instance, I would be confident another customer would find Damp Surveys as described in the review title. Simon visited our Victorian property and quickly identified the cause of a long-standing problem of damp patches in two upstairs rooms. He proposed a course of action to manage the problem that had previously, and at some cost to us, defeated various roofers and builders. Simon's knowledge and enthusiasm for his work is immediately apparent and in our case the proposed solution fortunately not expensive. If only we had consulted such a specialist at an earlier stage!

Absolutely delighted with the service Damp Surveys provided. The whole concept of taking a thoughtful, thorough, investigative approach to damp issues makes so much sense. Our flat had had a damp proof course injected twenty years ago, before we bought it. Rather than simply proceeding with having a new damp course injected we were keen to establish why there was a damp patch appearing in the flat. They identified the issues which we are now proceeding with redressing. Strongly recommend.

We booked them for a survey after getting some problems with black mold the last two winters. He was polite and respectful of our home, and took care to explain to us what he was looking at and why. We appreciated his explanations throughout the survey, as the report then didn't contain any surprises, and we felt knowledgeable enough to review it and move on with the recommendations. He was reassuringly thorough, and we wouldn't hesitate to recommend his services. Thank you!