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Treat rising damp.
Chemical injection DPC and salt-resistant re-plaster — for genuine rising damp diagnosed by survey.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
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Misdiagnosis as rising damp
80% of "rising damp" surveys are wrong. Condensation, penetrating damp, leaking pipes, or salt contamination are the usual real culprits. Get independent diagnosis.
Chemical injection on solid walls without ventilation
Treating symptoms not cause. Address ventilation and moisture source first.
Cheap "lifetime guarantees"
Worthless if the contractor disappears. Insist on insurance-backed guarantee (GPI, IBG).
Skipping plaster removal
Salt-contaminated plaster keeps damp coming back. Always replace up to 1m.
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
Damp survey (PCA-qualified)Independent diagnosis
£120–£400
Chemical DPC injection per metreDryzone, Aquapol
£50–£120
Re-plastering (salt-resistant) per m²Limelite, Sika
£50–£120/m²
Treatment one wall (typical)Internal + external
£800–£2.2k
Whole-house rising damp treatment4-bed terrace
£2.5k–£8.5k
External rendering repairPer m²
£20–£60/m²
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
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Damp Proofer explained
Rising damp is the most over-diagnosed problem in UK homes. Genuine rising damp is rare; most "rising damp" is actually condensation or penetrating damp. Expect to pay £1,200–£5,500 for genuine UK rising damp treatment depending on house size and complexity.
What Does the Work Involve?
PCA-qualified surveyor diagnoses the cause (often via moisture meter, salt analysis, and sometimes drilled samples). True rising damp is treated with chemical DPC injection: holes drilled at mortar joints just above ground level, silicone-based damp-proof cream (Dryzone, Aquapol) injected, holes filled. Internal plaster removed up to 1m and replaced with salt-resistant render. Skirting boards replaced. Treatment normally warranted 20–30 years.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Damp survey (PCA-qualified) | 120 | 400 | Independent diagnosis |
| Chemical DPC injection per metre | 50 | 120 | Dryzone, Aquapol |
| Re-plastering (salt-resistant) per m² | 50 | 120 | Limelite, Sika |
| Treatment one wall (typical) | 800 | 2,200 | Internal + external |
| Whole-house rising damp treatment | 2,500 | 8,500 | 4-bed terrace |
| External rendering repair | 20 | 60 | Per m² |
| Insurance-backed guarantee | 0 | 200 | For 20-year cover |
How Long Does It Take?
Single wall: 1–2 days plus 2–4 weeks for plaster to dry. Whole-house: 5–10 days plus drying. Re-decoration after drying: separate project.
DIY or Professional?
Professional. PCA-qualified surveyor for diagnosis; specialist contractor for injection. DIY chemical cream available but proper diagnosis essential — treating non-existent rising damp wastes thousands.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
PCA (Property Care Association) member. Independent surveyor (not the contractor doing the work) for unbiased diagnosis. Insist on insurance-backed guarantee (GPI, Quality Mark Protected). 20–30 year warranty in writing.
UK Regulations
Listed buildings need consent before any damp treatment. PCA Code of Practice is the industry standard. Awaab's Law (from 2026) requires landlords to address damp within strict timeframes.
Common Problems
- Misdiagnosis as rising damp: 80% of "rising damp" surveys are wrong. Condensation, penetrating damp, leaking pipes, or salt contamination are the usual real culprits. Get independent diagnosis.
- Chemical injection on solid walls without ventilation: Treating symptoms not cause. Address ventilation and moisture source first.
- Cheap "lifetime guarantees": Worthless if the contractor disappears. Insist on insurance-backed guarantee (GPI, IBG).
- Skipping plaster removal: Salt-contaminated plaster keeps damp coming back. Always replace up to 1m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rising damp real?
Yes — but it's much rarer than industry sells. Genuine rising damp affects only some pre-1875 properties without DPC. Most "rising damp" is misdiagnosed condensation or penetrating damp.
How do I know if I have rising damp?
Tide marks up to 1m on the inside wall, salt deposits, peeling wallpaper at low level. Visible damp doesn't always mean rising — get PCA-qualified independent diagnosis.
Should I get a free survey?
Free surveys from contractors are sales tools — they always find work to do. Pay £120–£400 for an independent PCA-qualified surveyor who doesn't do the remedial work.
Does chemical injection work?
For genuine rising damp: yes — modern silicone creams (Dryzone) are proven. For misdiagnosed problems: no — chemical injection makes no difference because the cause is elsewhere.
How long does treatment last?
Chemical DPC: 20–30 year warranty typical. Re-plastering: indefinite if dry. Underlying conditions need to remain controlled.
Will the property sell if it had rising damp?
Yes — with valid treatment certificate and insurance-backed guarantee. Without certification, surveyors flag and buyers retreat.
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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