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Survey Process
 

My survey process combines building pathology, advanced diagnostics and scientific testing to provide a precise understanding of damp, mould and moisture-related issues. Every assessment follows a structured, evidence-led approach to ensure accuracy and reliable outcomes.
 

1. Discussing the Issues Encountered
 

I begin by gathering background information:

This includes:

  • The history of the problem

  • Areas of concern

  • Previous attempts at repair

  • Occupancy patterns and environmental factors
     

Understanding context ensures the site visit is focused, efficient and tailored to the property.
 

2. On-Site Visit & Whole-Building Visual Inspection
 

The survey starts with a comprehensive visual assessment of the property’s internal and external condition.
 

External Visual Checks
 

I inspect:

  • Rainwater goods (gutters, downpipes, overflows)

  • Masonry defects and cracks

  • High ground levels or bridging of damp-proof courses

  • External ventilation and drainage points
     

These factors often play a role in moisture movement and must be assessed before testing begins.
 

External Baseline Readings
 

I record external:

  • Relative & Absolute Humidity (RH/AH)

  • Temperature
     

These become the baseline for analysing internal moisture load and vapour pressure later in the survey.
 

3. Initial Building Pathology Assessment
 

Next, I examine the property fabric to understand how moisture may be entering, accumulating or failing to escape.
This includes checking for:

  • Structural defects

  • Thermal bridges

  • Ventilation weaknesses

  • Material deterioration

  • Signs of moisture ingress or condensation risk
     

This building-pathology approach helps identify root causes, not just symptoms.
 

4. Infrared Guided Measurement (IGM™) Scanning
 

Using state-of-the-art infrared technology, I carry out a non-invasive moisture scan.
 

Thermal Scanning
 

I use an 160 × 120 thermal imaging sensor to quickly identify:
 

  • Cold spots

  • Thermal bridges

  • Potential damp patches

  • Areas of evaporative cooling
     

Laser-Guided Targeting
 

A built-in laser pointer and crosshairs allow me to pinpoint the exact location for further moisture testing, ensuring accuracy and repeatability.
 

5. Surface & Sub-Surface Moisture Testing
 

Once suspect areas are identified, I take physical moisture readings using two complementary modes:
 

Pinless (Non-Destructive) Testing
 

  • Measures moisture up to 19mm beneath the surface

  • Ideal for scanning large areas without marking finishes
     

Pin (Intrusive) Testing
 

  • Provides precise %MC or %WME readings

  • Used to confirm the depth and severity of moisture
     

Hammer / Deep-Wall Probes
 

Where necessary, I use specialised probes to measure moisture deep within brickwork, wall cavities or solid construction. I can also test deep into the structure using radio frequency (capacitance) in sensitive mode as far as 150mm.

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This multi-stage testing ensures a reliable moisture profile throughout the structure.
 

6. Psychrometric & Environmental Analysis
 

I conduct advanced environmental diagnostics to understand the moisture climate within the property.
 

Key Measurements Include:
 

  • Internal & external RH comparison

  • Internal & external vapour pressure (kPa)

  • Water vapour weight (g/kg)

  • Ambient temperature

  • Surface temperature

  • Calculated dew point
     

Why These Readings Matter
 

  • Vapour pressure differential reveals how moisture is moving between indoors and outdoors.

  • Mixing ratio identifies whether moisture is lifestyle-driven or structural.

  • Dew point analysis determines whether mould is caused by condensation or ingress.
     

This stage is essential for separating occupant-influenced moisture from genuine building defects.
 

7. Thermal Imaging Photography & Documentation
 

During the survey, I capture:

  • Thermal images

  • Moisture readings

  • Environmental data overlays

  • Photographs of defects
     

These images are later analysed using specialist software to support an evidence-based diagnosis.
 

8. Comprehensive Report & Recommended Remedial Works
 

Following the survey, you receive a detailed written report containing:

  • Summary of issues encountered

  • Building pathology findings

  • All diagnostic test results

  • Thermal imaging analysis

  • Root cause identification

  • Practical, prioritised remedial recommendations

  • Prevention advice for ongoing management

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NB:  Occasionally, I may have to inspect cavity walls using a borescope  / endoscope and / or extract small samples of masonry to conduct a carbide test.  Salt tests for chlorides and nitrates are offered free of charge in appropriate circumstances.

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