Period Property and Damp

[TulipsfromAmsterdam]

We are looking at a Victorian semi and from pics you can see evidence of damp/previous damp issues in places. In one area there is a drainpipe outside and we realise peeling wallpaper could have been due to a problem with that.
My query is should we get a damp proof course anyway as well as looking for leaks which may have caused issues if we proceed or is this not actually necessary?

Damp is pretty common in period properties - but stay away from damp proof companies that want to inject stuff into your bricks!!!

Victorian houses were made to breathe, in that sense they had air flow through them from natural draught, the draw from open fires, and slate roofs without felt.
The modern way of thinking is to remove draughts and this has an adverse affect on the fabric of these buildings. UPVC windows, blocked fire places, blocked vent bricks etc all add the the accumulative damp internally. This is the released as condensation on cold internal surfaces, usually room corners.
My advice would be to check gutters and down pipes and replace/repairs as necessary. Check drainage if damp is rising. Open under floor vents, if there is adequate ventilation in the raised floor space and water is able to run clear of the property from gutters and then there is no need for a DPC. Ensure that external ground levels are maintained below the floor joist level to stop end rot.
Beware that most "damp specialists" are also Damp proof system vendors so will always find damp.
Check out Jeff Howell (Daily relegraph) building expert who was always scathing of modern "fixes" to old houses.
We lived in a similar house without DPC and had no issues with damp after attending to the above. Our most severe damp had been caused by a blocked down pipe left for years by previous owner.

Look up 'heritage house'. Lots of info on all this.