Quay Point Plastering
Property interior representing Quay Point Plastering advice

Advice & blog

Damp and timber advice, guides and articles

Direct answers first, followed by the diagnostic context needed to avoid one-size-fits-all treatment — plus our latest articles.

Guides & advice

Start with the question you are trying to answer

Every guide identifies where photographs and general advice stop, and where a site inspection becomes necessary.

Is it rising damp, penetrating damp or condensation?

Is it rising damp, penetrating damp or condensation?

Use timing, position and context to understand common damp patterns—without treating clues as a final diagnosis.

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What happens during a specialist damp survey?

What happens during a specialist damp survey?

A clear guide to survey scope, contextual moisture readings, limitations and written findings.

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Why black mould keeps coming back

Why black mould keeps coming back

Why cleaning and anti-mould paint often fail when humidity, cold surfaces and ventilation remain unchanged.

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Seven signs commonly associated with rising damp

Seven signs commonly associated with rising damp

Recognise common low-level damp signs while understanding why each requires context.

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Why does my wall get damp after rain?

Why does my wall get damp after rain?

Explore gutters, pointing, render, chimneys, openings and cavities as common rainwater routes.

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Are old woodworm holes evidence of an active infestation?

Are old woodworm holes evidence of an active infestation?

Understand flight holes, fresh frass, activity and timber moisture before deciding on woodworm treatment.

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Is low-level damp always rising damp?

Is low-level damp always rising damp?

Low-level damp has several possible causes. Survey-led advice on distinguishing rising damp from bridging, leaks and condensation.

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Can a blocked gutter cause damp inside my house?

Can a blocked gutter cause damp inside my house?

How blocked gutters and overflowing rainwater goods cause internal damp, and what to check before calling a specialist.

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What are white salts on plaster and do they mean rising damp?

What are white salts on plaster and do they mean rising damp?

White crystalline deposits on walls explained. What causes efflorescence, when it indicates rising damp and when it does not.

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Can condensation look like rising damp?

Can condensation look like rising damp?

Why condensation at low level can mimic rising damp symptoms, and how specialists tell the difference.

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Can a plumbing leak look like damp in a wall?

Can a plumbing leak look like damp in a wall?

How hidden plumbing leaks mimic rising and penetrating damp, and what to check before assuming a damp problem.

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Why is mould growing behind my furniture?

Why is mould growing behind my furniture?

Mould behind wardrobes and sofas explained. Cold walls, restricted airflow and practical steps before calling a specialist.

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How do professionals test for damp in a wall?

How do professionals test for damp in a wall?

How specialist surveyors test for damp using moisture meters, inspection and building context — not just readings alone.

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How much does a damp survey cost?

How much does a damp survey cost?

Realistic damp survey costs explained, including what affects the price and what you should expect for your money.

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How much does rising damp treatment cost in Dorset?

How much does rising damp treatment cost in Dorset?

Realistic rising damp treatment costs for Dorset properties, including what is included and what affects the price.

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What does a damp-proofing guarantee actually cover?

What does a damp-proofing guarantee actually cover?

Understanding damp-proofing guarantee terms, exclusions and what to check before accepting a quotation.

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Landlord responsibilities for damp and mould — what the law says

Landlord responsibilities for damp and mould — what the law says

A practical overview of landlord obligations regarding damp and mould in rented properties, with honest inspection advice.

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What to do if your tenant reports mould

What to do if your tenant reports mould

Practical guidance for landlords when a tenant reports mould. Inspection, documentation and fair assessment advice.

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Do I need a damp survey before buying a house?

Do I need a damp survey before buying a house?

When a pre-purchase damp survey is worthwhile, what it covers and how it differs from an RICS Building Survey.

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Latest articles

From the Quay Point blog

Regularly published articles on damp, mould, timber and property care across Dorset.

Up to a Year to Dry: Survey Cavity Wall Damp First

Up to a Year to Dry: Survey Cavity Wall Damp First

Get a survey led diagnosis of the moisture path for cavity wall damp and clear repair steps for insulation, weep hole or gutter issues.

Homeowners: Damp proof paint myths that prompt repainting in 18 months

Homeowners: Damp proof paint myths that prompt repainting in 18 months

Practical myth-busting for homeowners: learn when damp proof paint helps, when it only hides damage, and why a damp survey should come first.

UK Tenants' Mould Checklist: Legal Deadlines and What Surveyors Check

UK Tenants' Mould Checklist: Legal Deadlines and What Surveyors Check

UK tenants: report mould with dated photos, know landlord duties under Section 11, HHSRS and Awaab's Law, plus a survey checklist to use before repairs.

Survey First Fixes for Thermal Bridging Mould in UK Homes

Survey First Fixes for Thermal Bridging Mould in UK Homes

Learn how to tell thermal bridging mould from leaks, why survey led diagnosis matters, and fixes UK homeowners can use to stop recurrence.

6 Chimney Flashing Failures That Cause Leaks, Diagnose Before You Pay

6 Chimney Flashing Failures That Cause Leaks, Diagnose Before You Pay

Pinpoint chimney flashing leaks with loft checks and a staged hose test, avoid caulk only fixes, and get a documented survey so you can judge quotes...

100–500mm, Not Metres: Rising Damp Myth for UK Homeowners

100–500mm, Not Metres: Rising Damp Myth for UK Homeowners

Why rising damp is often misdiagnosed and usually limited to 100–500mm; survey first checks, salt profiling, and moisture mapping stop unnecessary injections.

Avoid mould: UK homeowners' plaster drying time: 5–7 days for skims

Avoid mould: UK homeowners' plaster drying time: 5–7 days for skims

UK homeowners: clear plaster drying times (5–7 days for skims, 7–14 for undercoats), trade-tested checks, safe drying tips and when it's paint-ready to...

Survey Led Fixes for Basement Flooding and Damp for UK Homeowners

Survey Led Fixes for Basement Flooding and Damp for UK Homeowners

UK homeowners: stop basement flooding and damp with a survey led diagnosis, emergency 24 to 48 hour actions, and permanent waterproofing options.

Damp Proofing Guarantees Conveyancers Trust: 10, 20 or 30 Year Cover

Damp Proofing Guarantees Conveyancers Trust: 10, 20 or 30 Year Cover

Conveyancing checklist for buyers and sellers: how solicitors and lenders verify damp proofing guarantees, what IBGs cover, and fixes if paperwork is missing.

9–12 Months to Dry: How New Build Homeowners Prove Damp Is a Defect

9–12 Months to Dry: How New Build Homeowners Prove Damp Is a Defect

Understand which damp in new builds is normal, how to dry and document your home, and when an independent evidence led survey will prove a defect.

Kitchen condensation UK: 6 quick fixes and when to book a survey

Kitchen condensation UK: 6 quick fixes and when to book a survey

Practical UK advice to stop kitchen condensation: six cooking-time fixes, ventilation and heating steps, plus when to book a damp survey and guaranteed...

Black mould in a bedroom: causes, health risks and fixes

Black mould in a bedroom: causes, health risks and fixes

Discover the causes, health risks, and effective solutions for black mould in your bedroom. Act now to protect your health!

Landlord mould responsibilities UK: the law, timelines and fixes

Landlord mould responsibilities UK: the law, timelines and fixes

Understand landlord responsibilities for mould in the UK, including laws, timelines, and how to resolve issues effectively. Get informed now!

BS 8102 waterproofing: what UK homeowners must do

BS 8102 waterproofing: what UK homeowners must do

Discover how BS 8102 waterproofing ensures your basement is safeguarded against water damage. Learn the essential steps for UK homeowners.

Flat roof condensation: causes, signs and fixes

Flat roof condensation: causes, signs and fixes

Discover the causes and fixes for flat roof condensation, including signs to watch for and tips to solve indoor humidity issues.

Trace and access leak investigation: a guide for homeowners

Trace and access leak investigation: a guide for homeowners

Discover how trace and access leak investigation can save you money and prevent damage. This guide helps homeowners navigate insurance coverage.

Damp under a bay window: causes, checks and fixes

Damp under a bay window: causes, checks and fixes

Discover effective ways to identify and fix damp under your bay window. Learn the causes, simple checks, and when to call a surveyor.

Damp in solid walls: causes, diagnosis and fixes

Damp in solid walls: causes, diagnosis and fixes

Discover effective ways to diagnose and fix damp in solid walls. Learn to identify the root causes before tackling visible symptoms.

Bathroom mould solutions that actually stop it returning

Bathroom mould solutions that actually stop it returning

Discover effective bathroom mould solutions that eliminate moisture and prevent future growth. Start treating mould and ensure a healthier home.

Condensation treatment cost UK: what to budget for in 2026

Condensation treatment cost UK: what to budget for in 2026

Discover what to budget for condensation treatment costs in the UK for 2026. Get insights on necessary diagnostics and effective solutions.

Cold spots on walls: causes, risks and lasting fixes

Cold spots on walls: causes, risks and lasting fixes

Discover the causes and risks of cold spots on walls, plus effective solutions to prevent moisture and mould. Learn more today!

Mould on ceilings: how to clean, stop and when to call a pro

Mould on ceilings: how to clean, stop and when to call a pro

Learn how to effectively clean and prevent mould on ceilings, plus know when to seek professional help to ensure a safe, healthy home.

Mould in bedroom: what to do now and how to stop it

Mould in bedroom: what to do now and how to stop it

Struggling with mould in your bedroom? Learn effective steps to clean and prevent mould growth to create a healthier living space.

Condensation on walls: causes, fixes, and when to call a pro

Condensation on walls: causes, fixes, and when to call a pro

Discover the causes of condensation on walls and effective fixes. Learn when to call a pro to prevent further damage in your home.

Damp rising through a concrete slab: diagnosis and repair

Damp rising through a concrete slab: diagnosis and repair

Discover effective diagnosis and repair strategies for damp rising through concrete slabs. Avoid costly mistakes and address the real issues.

Mould on north walls: causes, fixes and when to call a survey

Mould on north walls: causes, fixes and when to call a survey

Discover the causes of mould on north walls and learn effective fixes. Find out when it's time to call a survey for professional help.

Mould on window reveals: a practical guide for homeowners

Mould on window reveals: a practical guide for homeowners

Discover practical solutions for dealing with mould on window reveals. Learn to prevent reoccurrence and maintain a healthy home environment.

Woodworm frass explained: what it is and what to do

Woodworm frass explained: what it is and what to do

Discover what woodworm frass is, how to identify it, and essential steps to take if you find it in your home. Act quickly!

Part F ventilation: what homeowners and builders must do

Part F ventilation: what homeowners and builders must do

Learn how Part F ventilation impacts your home's design, ensuring proper air quality and compliance for builders and homeowners in England.

Basement ventilation in the UK: a practical guide

Basement ventilation in the UK: a practical guide

Discover essential guidance on basement ventilation in the UK. Ensure a healthy, habitable space with expert tips on mechanical ventilation solutions.

Wet skirting boards: how to diagnose and fix them

Wet skirting boards: how to diagnose and fix them

Discover how to diagnose and fix wet skirting boards effectively. Learn the steps to stop the source of moisture and protect your home!

Dew point in homes: what UK homeowners must know

Dew point in homes: what UK homeowners must know

Learn about the dew point in homes and how to maintain a comfortable, moisture-free environment. Discover tips to prevent mold today!

Damp proofing cost UK 2026: what to budget

Damp proofing cost UK 2026: what to budget

Discover the damp proofing cost in the UK for 2026. Learn how to budget effectively for damp treatment and repairs based on your needs.

Woodworm treatment cost: UK price guide for 2026

Woodworm treatment cost: UK price guide for 2026

Discover the woodworm treatment cost in the UK for 2026. Learn how a timber survey can save you money before treatment begins.

Window condensation fix: survey-led solutions for lasting results

Window condensation fix: survey-led solutions for lasting results

Struggling with window condensation? Discover expert solutions for a lasting window condensation fix. Book a specialized survey today!

Tide marks on walls: diagnose, act, and fix them

Tide marks on walls: diagnose, act, and fix them

Discover how to diagnose and fix tide marks on walls effectively. Learn essential steps to tackle rising damp and protect your property.

Efflorescence vs damp: how to tell them apart

Efflorescence vs damp: how to tell them apart

Learn the key differences between efflorescence vs damp. Understand symptoms, solve your moisture issues, and know when to call a specialist.

Basement waterproofing options for UK homeowners

Basement waterproofing options for UK homeowners

Explore essential basement waterproofing options for UK homeowners. Learn the best methods and ensure long-lasting protection for your home.

The mould remediation process: what homeowners should expect

The mould remediation process: what homeowners should expect

Understand the mould remediation process: learn what to expect, preventive steps, and how to return your home to a safe state.

Basement waterproofing cost: survey-led guide for Dorset

Basement waterproofing cost: survey-led guide for Dorset

Discover the true basement waterproofing cost in Dorset. Get expert tips for accurate quotes and save money with a specialist survey today!

Black mould health risks: what UK households need to know

Black mould health risks: what UK households need to know

Discover the black mould health risks in UK households. Learn how mould affects respiratory health and what you can do to protect your family.

Sump pump maintenance: a homeowner's guide

Sump pump maintenance: a homeowner's guide

Ensure your home stays dry with essential sump pump maintenance tips. Learn monthly checks, quarterly tests, and yearly services for peace of mind.

Next step

Claim your complimentary survey before choosing a treatment

Tell us what you can see, when it changes and where the property is. Photographs can help us triage the next step.

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