Rising Damp Treatment and Damp Proofing Specialists in London

Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground is drawn upward through a wall by capillary action. It is one of the most frequently diagnosed forms of structural damp in older London properties, and when left untreated, it causes progressive damage to plaster, decoration, and internal timbers.

Kenwood PLC holds full PCA accreditation for damp proofing and has treated rising damp in properties across London for decades. Every project is carried out using proprietary injection systems and in-house-developed specialist renders backed by a guarantee.

What Causes Rising Damp?

In a properly built property, a damp proof course prevents ground moisture from travelling upward through the masonry. Rising damp develops when that barrier is missing, has broken down, or been bypassed. Common causes include:

Common causes include:

• Pre-1900 buildings constructed without a damp-proof course
• Properties where the original DPC has deteriorated with age
• Renovated properties where internal floor levels have been altered, bridging the existing barrier
• Homes where external ground levels have been raised above the DPC line

As moisture rises, it carries dissolved ground salts into the masonry and plaster. These salts are hygroscopic, which means they continue to attract and retain moisture from the air even after the original damp source has been addressed. This is why rising damp cannot be resolved by treating the surface alone.

Signs of Rising Damp

Rising damp typically affects the lower portion of ground-floor walls, rarely extending beyond 1.0 to 1.5 metres in height. You may need a professional damp survey if you notice:

• A horizontal tide mark or dark stain line running along the base of the wall
• White, powdery salt deposits forming on the plaster surface
• Plaster that feels soft, sounds hollow, or is visibly crumbling
• Skirting boards that are warped, stained, or showing signs of decay

Not all rising damp is immediately visible. If you recognise any of the symptoms above, or are unsure what type of damp is affecting your property, a professional survey is the most reliable starting point.

H2: How Kenwood Treats Rising Damp

Treating rising damp properly means addressing the cause at its source, not covering over the symptoms.

Kenwood’s treatment follows a five-stage process:

Step 1: Professional damp survey

A Kenwood specialist conducts a full survey to confirm whether rising damp is present, determine its extent, and rule out other causes.

Step 2: Chemical damp proof course injection

The masonry is drilled at set intervals, and Kenwood’s proprietary siliconate injection fluid or DPC cream is introduced under pressure until the full wall depth is saturated. Once cured, this forms a continuous chemical barrier that stops moisture from rising further.

Step 3: Removal of salt-contaminated plaster

The contaminated plaster is stripped back to a minimum of 1.0 metre above the visible damp line. Leaving it in place will cause ongoing symptoms regardless of the new DPC.

Step 4: Kenwood’s Premix Waterproof Rendering System

The exposed masonry is re-rendered using Kenwood’s Premix Waterproof Rendering System, a specialist salt-retardant render that prevents residual salts migrating to the new surface. This system is factory-batched under computer-controlled conditions, ensuring exact proportions of sand, cement, lime, and waterproofers in every mix.

Step 5: Skim coat and decoration-ready finish

A final skim coat is applied to produce a smooth surface ready for decoration.

Rising Damp in Basements

Where walls are below ground level and retaining earth, a chemical damp proof course alone will not be sufficient. Kenwood applies the SWS Tanking System, a cementitious waterproof coating designed to resist hydrostatic pressure. Where appropriate, a chemical DPC is also installed above external ground level.

Why PCA Accreditation Matters

The Property Care Association (PCA) is the UK’s leading trade body for damp proofing and structural waterproofing. PCA-accredited contractors must meet independently assessed standards. Kenwood holds full PCA accreditation, giving homeowners and property professionals confidence in the accuracy of the diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rising Damp

What is rising damp?

Rising damp is structural damp caused by ground moisture being drawn upward through walls by capillary action. It occurs where the damp proof course is missing, failed, or bridged.

How do I know if my property has rising damp?

Look for a horizontal tide mark at the base of walls, white salt deposits on plaster, peeling decoration at low level, and deteriorating skirting boards. A professional damp survey is the most accurate way to confirm the diagnosis.

How long does rising damp treatment take?

For a typical residential property, installation and replastering is usually completed within a few days. Drying times vary depending on wall thickness and ventilation.

Are landlords responsible for treating rising damp?

Yes. Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords must ensure rental properties are free from serious damp. Tenants can take legal action if rising damp is left unresolved.

How much does rising damp treatment cost?

Cost depends on the number of walls affected, accessibility, and whether additional works such as tanking are needed. Kenwood provides a detailed quotation after every survey. You can also view our indicative damp proofing prices online.

Book a rising damp survey with Kenwood

Speak to a Rising Damp Specialist in London

If you have noticed signs of rising damp or want an expert assessment of your property, Kenwood’s PCA-accredited specialists are ready to help.

Get in touch with Kenwood today to arrange your survey.