Home › Damp proofing › Damp survey

Damp survey in Leeds: find the cause before you pay for treatment

A damp survey in Leeds tells you what kind of damp you have and why, before anyone sells you a treatment. Here is what a good survey includes, the difference between free and independent surveys, and what one costs.

Updated November 2026

What a damp survey checks

  • Where the damp is and how far it spreads
  • Moisture readings, ideally checked with other tests, not a meter alone
  • Outside causes: gutters, downpipes, pointing, render, ground levels and air bricks
  • Ventilation and heating, to rule condensation in or out
  • Timber condition, for rot or woodworm

Free surveys versus independent surveys

Many damp proofing companies offer a free survey. That is not always bad, but the surveyor is usually also selling the treatment. An independent survey from a surveyor who does not sell treatment costs more but gives you a neutral view. For a house purchase, your mortgage lender may ask for a specific damp and timber report.

How much does a damp survey cost?

MyBuilder's 2026 guide puts damp surveys at £150 to £500, with a basic visual survey at £150 to £250 and a comprehensive survey with thermal imaging at £200 to £500. By property it gives about £180 to £250 for a terraced house and £200 to £300 for a semi. See our damp survey cost guide.

Damp specialists in Leeds

See our list of damp proofing firms in Leeds. Ask each one whether the survey is free, what tests it includes and whether you get a written report.

Damp proofing in Leeds we list

See the full damp proofing list and our checks

Questions people ask

Is a free damp survey worth having?

It can be useful, but remember the surveyor may also be selling the treatment. If the quote is large, consider a second opinion or an independent survey.

How long does a damp survey take?

Usually one to two hours for a typical house, with a written report afterwards.

Can a damp survey tell rising damp from condensation?

A good one should. It will look at where the damp is, salts on the plaster, outside defects and ventilation, not just moisture readings.