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We were recently instructed to inspect a property that had previously undergone a damp treatment by a so-called “damp expert.”

🔍 The Previous Damp Solution:

The property had previously received a damp treatment, involving the injection of a damp-proof course (DPC) and the installation of a new timber floor. However, none of the following was considered which was the actual cause of the damp and timber issues.

1️⃣ Lack of Ventilation: There was no consideration for proper ventilation, an essential element in moisture control. This has led to accelerated rotting of the timbers.

2️⃣ High Ground Levels: The ground levels surrounding the property had not been appropriately addressed, allowing water to bridge the DPC. This allowed moisture to penetrate the building’s fabric, causing further issues. As well as this the original DPC and subfloor ventilation was buried by the external ground levels.

🔍 The Result:

As a direct consequence of these oversights, the newly installed timber floor has once again succumbed to rot, necessitating a complete replacement. This unfortunate situation highlights the importance of getting qualified professional advice.

If you are experiencing damp or timber-related issues in your property please get in touch. We are happy to assist.

Holdens Chartered Surveyors is excited to introduce two new additions to its team as part of the company’s long-term growth strategy. Aiden Hartley and Samantha Gibson have recently joined our practice, having completed their BSc (Hons) degrees in Building Surveying.

Aiden comes with valuable prior experience, having worked with Michael Dysons Associates while pursuing his degree. He is a certified Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) and is currently preparing to submit his application for AssocRICS in October. Following this, Aiden will embark on a 24-month structured program down the Building Surveying Pathway to attain Chartered status.

Sammie, on the other hand, brings her expertise from her previous role as a new build sales officer at McDermott Homes. She will build upon this experience by pursuing qualifications from the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA – Property Mark) and subsequently undertaking the Institute of Residential Property Management (IRPM) qualifications. These steps will help Sammie advance and support her whilst she undertakes the APC 24-month structured program down the Residential pathway to attain Chartered status.

At Holdens, we recognize that our people play a pivotal role in our success, and we are thrilled to welcome Aiden and Sammie to our team as graduate surveyors.

What is radon gas and is it important for property agents in the sales and rentals sectors to know the reasons why it can be dangerous and if properties should be checked, plus, do you know where to go to get resources to help?

What is radon gas?

A naturally occurring radioactive gas that is produced by the decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water, radon gas is colourless, odourless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect without proper testing. 

When radon gas is released from the ground, it can enter buildings, including houses, through cracks in the foundation, gaps in floors and walls, and openings around pipes and cables. Once inside a house, radon can accumulate and reach high levels, posing a health risk to the occupants. 

The dangers of radon gas exposure to high levels of radon gas is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer overall. The risk of developing lung cancer from radon exposure depends on the concentration of radon gas in the air and the duration of exposure. Smokers who are also exposed to radon have an even higher risk of developing lung cancer. Mitigating the levels of radon gas to protect against radon gas, testing homes for radon levels is important. Radon testing kits are available for purchase and can be used to measure the radon concentration in the air. If high levels of radon are detected, mitigation measures can be taken to reduce radon levels in the house. These measures may include sealing cracks and openings in the foundation, installing a radon mitigation system, or improving ventilation. 

Want to know more? See Michael’s full response in his president’s blog below:

https://www.propertymark.co.uk/resource/presidents-blog-testing-for-radon-gas.html