Damp and woodworm

[stargirl1701]

We are considering a house. It's 140 years old. Stone built farmhouse. The home report (Scotland) says there is both damp and woodworm present. The estimated repair cost is £3K.

What do we need to think about? Do? I'm thinking a full structural survey plus estimates from at least 3 contractors?

Should we walk away? Any experience or advice?

[Afishcalledchips]

Most houses of that age are going to have those problems, and its difficult to say if the woodworm is historic or new. If you can go and view again look for signs of 'frass' which is very fine sawdust. This will tell you if it's recent.

I wouldn't worry about the woodworm too much.
You can treat woodworm yourself as long as you're happy to take up floorboards and replace as necessary. The chemicals and gear (protective clothes, proper masks and the sprayer) has cost us around £120 for a decent sized 3 bed house. With the extra cost of a bit of flooring taking it up to maybe £200 total.

What's the source of the damp?

[stargirl1701]

There is damp in the gable walls and the ground floor. There are gaps in the slate roof where daylight can been seen so I would think a lot of the damp will be water penetrating the building. The chimney stacks need work too.

[stargirl1701]

The woodworm is the roof - trusses, etc.