Buying an 1930s house and had our survey back last week. All good, except for some areas of damp. To be clear – I'm not freaking out! I know that damp is to be expected in older houses. Currently in a Victorian terrace and you can guess how that's going this wet winter.
There is one patch of damp in the hallway (although the wall felt dry to me) and another in the front room (where there is an external vent in the brick work). In the case of the latter, the wallpaper is wet and peeling but the wall behind feels dry – so this could be condensation?
The survey says the house has had a damp proofing course, plus later damp proofing chemical injections.
Now, from what I have read, it is better to find the cause of damp, fix it, and ensure adequate ventilation and heating.
What we should do (apparently) is this:
-Have guttering checked and replaced
-Check for any water ingress under house
-Clear out air vents in the bricks
-Ensure any waterproofing on the plaster is sanded off
-Ensure adequate ventilation and heating
-Use a dehumidifier and take care drying clothes indoors
-Once areas dry, paint with breathable claypaint
So my questions are:
-First, is the above sensible?
-Would you be looking for money off the purchase price for the costs of the above? Checking guttering and water ingress under house will cost money.
-Do I get another survey for the above? I'm really wary of damp proofing companies recommending, er, lots more damp proofing measures.
Any other advice gratefully received!