If you are seeking independent advice for a damp or timber issue, the points below must be considered before instructing your chosen specialist…
What does “independent” actually mean?
The remedial industry trade association defines an independent surveyor as being an individual who offers a specialist surveying service and has no Commercial Link or interest with any organisation or individual that derives profit or gain from the undertaking of building preservation work.
A growing trend is for contractors and damp proofing companies to advertise “independent damp surveys”. By nature of being “contractors” such individuals or organisations cannot be considered independent.
Phrases such as “our fully qualified surveyors offer impartial surveys” give a false impression and the promise of “an action plan with a no obligation quote” suggests questionable impartiality . Both of these proclamations were taken from London based damp proofing companies masquerading as independent specialists.
RICS or Remedial Surveyor?
Below is a screenshot from an exchange found on Reddit, the chat platform where everyone is an expert:
While both of these Redditors are accurate in their assessment of the free surveys offered by damp companies, there is a misconception as to the extent of the specialist knowledge held by a RICS surveyor. A member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors will generally have an overview of all things related to building construction. However, unless you are fortunate to find a RICS professional who is particularly passionate about dampness in traditional buildings, the knowledge that he or she may hold on this subject will be basic.
As a side note, if you have had a RICS survey on a property built after 1878 and the surveyor is suggesting that rising damp is present, please get in touch with me – I would be interested to learn more about your specific situation.
Even a RICS Level 3 survey (their most comprehensive survey report available) will not diagnose the nature of any damp or timber issue which may have been identified. A diagnosis should be made by a suitably trained and qualified specialist with experience in surveying and reporting on dampness in traditional buildings.
Qualifications & Experience
Training offered by the Property Care Association is recognised and respected as a benchmark for those operating within the remedial industry. The minimal qualification an independent damp specialist should hold is a CSRT or CSTDB.
Should advice on dampness in below ground structures such as cellars or basements be required, then ensure that the professional you are instructing holds the CSSW qualification.
If you are buying, selling or own a house in London, Hertfordshire & Buckinghamshire including Windsor and Maidenhead, I offer impartial, independent and cost effective advice.
Get in touch to find out more.