Stronghold Preservation have worked with a number of Housing Associations to provide in-depth surveys and recommendations to firstly establish the problem, and then alleviate the symptoms of damp and condensation in rental social accommodation.
The surveys consisted of using a range of investigative techniques: a visual survey, using the knowledge and experience of the surveyor; electronic and innovative dry rot sensors sensors to establish if damp was present (both a snapshot and measurement over time).
Further Information
The tenents of some social houses had notified their respective
housing associations that there was damp evident in their house,
and their health was being affected. The housing association
contacted Stronghold Preservation to carry out a comprehensive survey of each
affected dwelling, and provide mitigating measures to ensure that
the association was protecting its residents and housing stock.
Stronghold Preservation visited each dwelling a number of times,
and carried out a range of investigative surveys on each house;
- visual inspection internally & externally to assess
if there were any structural or maintenance problems which would
allow damp to penetrate (eg missing slates /
defective chimney flashings, etc)
- visual inspection to assess if there was any sign of
damp, mould or wood
rots (dry rot or wet rot);
- a damp monitor was used where damp was suspected (a
pronged device was inserted into timbers / masonry and a moisture
reading taken);
- a measurement of the humidity in the house, at that
time, using a hygrometer;
- damp sensors, which are chemical sensors, which measure
the relative humidity, with an indication of time span;
- innovative dry rot sensors, which change colour
when in contact with an active dry rot infestation.
Stronghold Preservation provided comprehensive written surveys
for each dwelling, and recommendations for remedial works.
