Rising Damp in Old Moulsham

In September 2025, our team was commissioned to investigate a damp issue at a residential property in Old Moulsham, Chelmsford. The client had reported signs of damp in the ground floor front room, as well as damp staining in the first-floor front bedroom, which prompted a comprehensive inspection.

During the inspection, clear signs of moisture were identified on two external walls, with damp patches visible up to around one metre high at the front and rear of the living space. A separate area of damp was also noted at the top of the rear wall. Moisture readings taken during the survey showed levels peaking at approximately 100% WME near the base of the walls, dropping below 20% WME at one metre high, which is consistent with rising damp. Elevated moisture levels at the top of the rear wall indicated a separate source of water ingress, likely caused by a leak at a rear gutter joint, where staining was also observed.

Our survey confirmed that the property was affected by several defects, including rising damp caused by a failed damp-proof course, and lateral rainwater penetration resulting from a faulty gutter joint. After our report and recommendations were reviewed, we secured the contract for remedial work. This case study covers the project from survey to completion, detailing diagnostics, treatment, and restoration.

To fully resolve the issues, the recommended works included the installation of a chemical damp proof course (DPC), specialist re-plastering, and gutter repairs to be completed by others. The remedial work commenced on 9 September 2025 and was scheduled to take three days. The first stage of the project involved removing and setting aside the skirting boards before carefully hacking off and disposing of the affected plaster up to a height of 1.3 metres. This allowed access to the masonry for the next phase of treatment.

The remedial work commenced on 9 September 2025 and was scheduled to take three days. The first stage of the project involved removing and setting aside the skirting boards before carefully hacking off and disposing of the affected plaster up to a height of 1.3 metres. This allowed access to the masonry for the next phase of treatment.

“My 19th century 2 bed terrace house had been plagued with rising damp and condensed problems. Essex & Anglia Preservation Ltd (E&AP Ltd) came to my rescue. I would absolutely recommend this company. From Zak the surveyor, to the damp proofer plasterers Joel and his son. Not forgetting the very helpful office staff. I was advised by a colleague to obtain at least 3 quotes before going ahead. E&AP Ltd were the cheapest, and I’d suggest the very best of the 3. I was given a full written report with photographs and diagrams to show exactly what need doing. Zak went above and beyond and was most supportive with his advice. Don’t worry about getting numerous quotes for damp proofing go directly to Essex & Anglia Preservation Ltd”