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Repair a bridged DPC.
Garden raised over DPC, render run down across it, or debris bridge — exposed, lowered and re-graded.
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Costs, timelines, pitfalls and the right questions to ask before any damp proofer starts on bridged DPC Repair.
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Top tips
Hiring a damp proofer, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Path or patio above DPC
Most common cause. Lowering path costs £40–£120/m. Often the cheapest damp fix available.
Cement render below DPC
Cement render that extends below DPC bridges. Cut back to 150mm above ground level.
Insulation against external wall
Insulation pressed against external wall below DPC bridges. Leave gap.
Internal plaster bridge
Plaster directly across DPC inside. Cut plaster back to brick at DPC line.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Lower external ground level per metreExcavate to below DPC
£40–£120
Cut render back below DPC per metreRe-form joint
£30–£80
Internal plaster removal per m²Hack off bridged area
£15–£30/m²
Cavity debris removal per metreSpecialist cleaning
£40–£120
Add air bricks if neededVentilation under floor
£80–£250
Single wall full bridge fixExternal + internal
£400–£1.2k
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
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Damp Proofer explained
A bridged damp proof course (DPC) lets moisture rise despite the DPC being intact. Common in older properties where modern ground levels or render finishes cross above the DPC line. Expect to pay £200–£1,200 for UK bridged DPC repair.
What Does the Work Involve?
Diagnosis identifies the bridge — typically: external ground level raised above DPC (path, soil, paving), modern cement render covering DPC line, internal plaster crossing DPC, debris in cavity bridging from one leaf to the other. Remediation depends on cause: lower the path, cut render back, replace internal plaster, clear cavity debris.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower external ground level per metre | 40 | 120 | Excavate to below DPC |
| Cut render back below DPC per metre | 30 | 80 | Re-form joint |
| Internal plaster removal per m² | 15 | 30 | Hack off bridged area |
| Cavity debris removal per metre | 40 | 120 | Specialist cleaning |
| Add air bricks if needed | 80 | 250 | Ventilation under floor |
| Single wall full bridge fix | 400 | 1,200 | External + internal |
| Whole-house bridged DPC fix | 1,200 | 4,500 | Larger scope |
How Long Does It Take?
Single wall bridge fix: 1–2 days plus drying. Whole-house: 1 week plus drying.
DIY or Professional?
Lowering external ground level: DIY-able if simple. Cutting render and internal replacement: professional plasterer. Cavity debris removal: specialist.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
PCA-qualified surveyor for diagnosis. General builder or specialist contractor for remediation. Cavity debris specialists (Dryfix, Permagard) for cavity work.
UK Regulations
No specific Building Regs. Listed buildings need consent before altering ground levels or render.
Common Problems
- Path or patio above DPC: Most common cause. Lowering path costs £40–£120/m. Often the cheapest damp fix available.
- Cement render below DPC: Cement render that extends below DPC bridges. Cut back to 150mm above ground level.
- Insulation against external wall: Insulation pressed against external wall below DPC bridges. Leave gap.
- Internal plaster bridge: Plaster directly across DPC inside. Cut plaster back to brick at DPC line.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell if my DPC is bridged?
Visible damp on inside wall without obvious external cause. Check externally if ground level above DPC line, render below DPC line, or debris near DPC. DPC should be 150mm minimum above external ground.
Will lowering the path fix it?
If the path is the bridge: yes. Lowering ground level by 100–200mm below DPC restores effectiveness without expensive damp injection.
Should I get DPC injection or fix the bridge?
Always address the bridge first — much cheaper than injection (£200–£1,200 vs £1,200–£5,500). DPC injection is for failed DPC, not bridged.
Cement render around the house — remove?
Cut back to 150mm above ground level. Re-form a clean stop above the DPC. Don't render down to ground level — bridges and traps moisture.
Cavity debris — when is it an issue?
Common in 1930s–1960s cavity wall homes. Mortar fell into cavity during construction. Specialist cleaning £40–£120/m. Damp diagnosis usually confirms.
Will fixing the bridge alone solve damp?
Often yes — if bridging was the cause. Always re-check moisture levels 6–8 weeks after remediation to confirm.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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