'Free' damp proof surveys....

Some unscrupulous traders approach homeowners with an offer of a 'free' damp proof survey on their property, claiming that a problem with damp has been discovered in the area. They often prey on the elderly. A 'surveyor' usually makes an appointment to carry out the 'free' survey, discovers damp - even though it may not really be there - quotes a price of up to £2300 and requests an immediate deposit. The homeowner always ends up out of pocket.

Tips for avoiding the 'Dodgy Damp-proofers':

• A free survey may result in an expensive quote, so do not rush into placing an order immediately.
• Never pay a deposit during a survey visit.
• Get a 2nd opinion, either from a chartered building surveyor or from a reputable damp-proofer.
• Members of the British Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing Association (BWPDA) are required to abide by a code of conduct.
• If work does need doing, get at least one more quote for the full cost of the work needed.
• Be extremely wary where a surveyor carries out tests on the outside of a cavity walled property as it should have been built with an effective damp-proof course.
• Remember, damp in a wall may have many causes and it may take an expert to identify the root of the problem.
• Also remember that just because someone offers you a free survey it does NOT mean that they are qualified or even capable of doing one.
• More information is available from the
  British Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing Association

If you believe that a 'dodgy damproofers' are offering to carry out free surveys in your area ...

Tell your local Trading Standards Service and tell us - it may help us to stop them and protect other people.