Damp is one of those problems that can sneak up on you. At first, it might just seem like a bit of condensation on the windows or a musty smell in the corner of the room. But if it’s ignored, it can grow into a serious issue—causing damage to your home, your health and even your wallet.
At Damp and Mould Control Limited, we’ve been helping people across the region for over many years, and we know what to look for. In this post, we’ll explain how you can spot the early signs of damp, why it matters and what to do about it. We'll also share why a proper damp survey in Cambridge is your best bet for protecting your property.
What is Damp?
Damp is simply excess moisture that builds up in the structure of a building. It can affect walls, floors, ceilings and even the air quality in your home. There are different types of damp, and understanding which one you’re dealing with is key to solving it.
The main types are:
- Condensation: Usually caused by poor ventilation and common in bathrooms, kitchens and bedrooms.
- Penetrating damp: Moisture coming in through walls or roofs, often due to faulty guttering or cracks.
- Rising damp: Moisture rising from the ground up through bricks or stonework.
You might also come across problems with timber, such as dry rot, wet rot or woodworm infestations, which can be linked to damp conditions.
Signs to Watch Out For
Spotting damp early is the key to preventing bigger problems. Here are some common warning signs:
- Peeling paint or wallpaper: When moisture gets under the surface, it can cause decorative finishes to bubble and peel.
- Tide marks or discoloured patches on walls: These can indicate water coming through the walls from outside or rising from the ground.
- Musty smells: Damp areas often have a strong, earthy smell.Condensation on windows and walls: If it doesn’t go away after opening a window or turning on the extractor fan, it may be a sign of a larger issue.
- Black mould: Often found in bathrooms or behind furniture, mould loves humid environments and poor air flow.
- Crumbling plaster or skirting boards: Moisture can damage materials over time, causing them to break down.
- Cold patches on walls: These can indicate poor insulation or hidden damp.
If you notice any of these, don’t ignore them. The longer you leave it, the more expensive and complicated the fix may become.
What Causes Damp?
Many companies in the industry rush to treat symptoms—scraping off mould, injecting chemicals into walls, or replacing plaster—but don’t take the time to understand what’s really causing the damp in the first place.
At Damp and Mould Control Limited, we take a different approach. We don’t just plaster over the cracks. We look for the real source of the problem, whether it’s a blocked gutter, a leak, a lack of ventilation or improper construction materials. That’s why we’ve built a reputation for getting it right the first time.
Why You Should Get a Damp Survey in Cambridge
If you’re based in Cambridge or the surrounding area and think you might have a damp issue, the best place to start is with a damp survey in Cambridge. A professional survey isn’t just a formality—it’s a crucial step in understanding what’s going wrong in your home and how to put it right.
Our damp surveys are detailed, practical and based on years of experience. We don’t just tick boxes or rely on old methods. We use the latest diagnostic tools to examine moisture levels, airflow, insulation and the structure of your home. We also assess timber where relevant, to check for signs of rot or infestation.
With the right survey, you’ll get a clear, no-nonsense picture of your property’s condition—and a plan to fix it properly.
Our Approach: Treating the Cause, Not Just the Symptoms
Too many companies cover up damp without solving the underlying issue. They might inject chemicals into the wall or slap on some new plaster and paint. Then, when the problem comes back, they blame something else. We don’t work like that.
At Damp and Mould Control Limited, we pride ourselves on tackling damp properly. That might mean removing render to see what’s going on underneath, or improving ventilation rather than masking condensation with a dehumidifier. We believe in getting it right—first time, every time.
Whether it’s condensation, penetrating damp, rising damp or timber rot, we’re here to help you find the real cause and fix it properly.
If you think you might need a damp survey in Cambridge, get in touch with us at Damp and Mould Control Limited today. We’ll carry out a thorough inspection, explain everything clearly and offer solutions that work—for good.
Your home should be safe, dry and healthy. Let’s make sure it stays that way.
