Survey - damp proof course

[Evamaisie]

Hi everyone

Looking for some advice please - I have just had a survey back saying that the bitumen damp proof course is not high enough in relation to the ground level of the patio and drive of the house I am looking to buy. The surveyor advises lowering the ground level of the outside to avoid damp issues. What would you do in this scenario? Request a price reduction based on the work need?

thanks!

As they will face this problem with any purchaser, it’s worth to ask.
What is the patio and drive made of? Concrete or tarmac would be a pita, slabs or blocks very easy.
Is there any damp?

We had a level 3 survey done so I am wondering if with another buyer they might not have the problem as it might not be raised on a lower level survey.

i haven’t specifically noticed damp myself but the surveyor sent some photos of some patches in the conservatory and also some readings recognising it

Sorry, realised I didn’t reply to your other question, the back is patio slabs

I would get a quote for fixing it and ask for a discount. That isn't a structural thing so it should show up on a level 2 survey too.

Slabs are easy. While you might want to ask for a discount, lowering the ground level is not a big undertaking, so it probably shouldn’t be a deciding factor in the purchase.

@Evamaisie lowering the ground level is not difficult, there is also the option to install a french drain.

If the surveyor has given you meter readings be aware damp meters are totally useless.

Thanks for the help everyone, very useful information.