Rising Damp on Ground Floor Walls
Damp and discolouration on ground floor walls, typically up to about one metre from the floor, with a tide mark.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Failed or absent damp proof course (DPC)
- 2Ground level outside higher than the DPC
- 3Bridging of the DPC by internal or external renders or soil
How Urgent Is This?
This should be fixed in the coming weeks. Leaving it may allow the problem to worsen and cost more to repair.
What Needs to Be Done
A damp proofing specialist will diagnose the damp type, inject a chemical DPC if the original has failed, replaster with salt-resistant render, and lower ground levels if needed.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £577 – £1,887 | Materials: £370 – £1,475
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Ask a QuestionPlanning Permission Guidance
Some fixes for this problem may require planning permission or building regulations approval. Check if your project needs permission:
How to Prevent This
Keep external ground levels at least 150mm below the DPC. Do not render over the DPC externally. Ensure paths and patios slope away from the wall.
Related Problems
A persistent damp area at the base of an internal wall, often with peeling paint or a musty smell.
A horizontal line of discolouration or salt deposits running along the base of ground floor walls.
White, powdery, or crystalline deposits appearing on the surface of internal or external walls.
Other Damp Proofing Specialist Problems
A persistent damp area at the base of an internal wall, often with peeling paint or a musty smell.
A horizontal line of discolouration or salt deposits running along the base of ground floor walls.
A persistent damp, musty, or earthy smell throughout the house or in specific rooms.
Basement walls that are visibly wet, with water seeping through or condensation forming on cold surfaces.