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Install a new DPC.
Chemical injection or physical DPC — for properties with rising damp confirmed by moisture survey.
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Costs, timelines, pitfalls and the right questions to ask before any damp proofer starts on damp Proof Course (DPC) Installation.
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Itemised quotes from up to 3 local damp proofers on damp Proof Course (DPC) Installation — so you can compare like-for-like, not lump sums.
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Wrong diagnosis
DPC injection on misdiagnosed damp wastes thousands. Get independent diagnosis first.
Bridge above DPC
Modern ground level higher than DPC, modern render plaster crossing DPC. Bridge bypasses the DPC.
Skipping plaster
Salt-contaminated plaster keeps damp coming back even after DPC. Always replace.
Cheap "guarantees"
Worthless if contractor disappears. Insist on insurance-backed.
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
Chemical DPC injection per metreDryzone, Aquapol
£50–£120
Physical DPC retrofit per metreBrick course replacement
£120–£300
Bridged DPC remediation per metreLower external level
£40–£120
Internal plaster replacementPer m², salt-resistant
£50–£120/m²
Single wall complete (typical)10–15m of wall
£800–£2.5k
Whole house chemical DPC4-bed terrace
£2.5k–£8.5k
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
Infographic · VideoThe Damp Proofer briefing.
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Damp Proofer quick-view
Video guide
Damp Proofer explained
A damp proof course (DPC) is the horizontal layer that stops moisture rising through walls. Most UK homes built after 1875 have a slate or bitumen DPC; pre-1875 may have none. Expect to pay £400–£2,500 for UK DPC installation or remediation.
What Does the Work Involve?
Three main scenarios. Chemical DPC injection: silicone cream injected at mortar level. Most common UK remediation. Physical DPC replacement: removing brick courses, inserting new DPC strip, rebuilding. Major work. Bridge removal: where ground level or rendered finish bridges the existing DPC, remove the bridge.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical DPC injection per metre | 50 | 120 | Dryzone, Aquapol |
| Physical DPC retrofit per metre | 120 | 300 | Brick course replacement |
| Bridged DPC remediation per metre | 40 | 120 | Lower external level |
| Internal plaster replacement | 50 | 120 | Per m², salt-resistant |
| Single wall complete (typical) | 800 | 2,500 | 10–15m of wall |
| Whole house chemical DPC | 2,500 | 8,500 | 4-bed terrace |
| Insurance-backed guarantee | 0 | 200 | For 20–30 year cover |
How Long Does It Take?
Single wall chemical DPC: 1 day plus 4–6 weeks for plaster to dry. Physical DPC retrofit: 1–2 weeks per wall. Bridge remediation: 1 day plus rendering time.
DIY or Professional?
Professional. PCA-qualified contractor for chemical DPC. Structural work needs proper expertise. DIY chemical cream available but proper diagnosis essential.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
PCA member. Insurance-backed guarantee (GPI, IBG). 20–30 year warranty in writing. Reputable products (Dryzone, Aquapol, Sika).
UK Regulations
Listed buildings need consent before any DPC work. PCA Code of Practice. Building Regs Part C (moisture control).
Common Problems
- Wrong diagnosis: DPC injection on misdiagnosed damp wastes thousands. Get independent diagnosis first.
- Bridge above DPC: Modern ground level higher than DPC, modern render plaster crossing DPC. Bridge bypasses the DPC.
- Skipping plaster: Salt-contaminated plaster keeps damp coming back even after DPC. Always replace.
- Cheap "guarantees": Worthless if contractor disappears. Insist on insurance-backed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a new DPC?
Only if the existing DPC has failed or doesn't exist. Pre-1875 properties often have no DPC. Post-1875 should have one but may be bridged.
Chemical vs physical DPC?
Chemical (injected cream): cheaper, less disruptive, 20–30 year warranty. Physical (replacement strip): more permanent but invasive. Chemical is the modern UK standard.
How is the DPC bridged?
Modern render or paving rises above the DPC level externally. Cement render on solid walls. Modern plaster internally connecting top of DPC to wall above.
How long does chemical DPC last?
20–30 years warranty typical. Many last decades longer. Quality products (Dryzone, Aquapol) backed by independent test data.
Will I need internal plaster replacement?
Yes — salt-contaminated plaster up to 1m above DPC must be removed and replaced with salt-resistant render.
How long until I can decorate?
Allow 4–6 weeks for walls to dry, then 2–3 weeks for new plaster to dry. Total 6–9 weeks before paint.
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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