Condensation & Mould Surveys
Condensation and mould growth are among the most common damp-related problems in UK buildings. Left untreated, they can damage finishes, affect air quality, and cause serious health concerns for occupants. We provide independent condensation and mould surveys in Milton Keynes, diagnosing the true cause of black mould and high humidity, and recommending practical, cost-effective solutions.
Typical signs of condensation and mould include:
Black mould growth on walls, ceilings, or around windows
Persistent musty odours
Streaming or misted-up windows, especially in colder months
Peeling paint or wallpaper in corners or behind furniture
Localised damp patches without obvious external defects
Signs & Symptoms
Condensation and mould usually result from a combination of:
Inadequate ventilation (blocked vents, faulty fans, poor air change rates)
Cold bridging at structural junctions (e.g., lintels, corners, ceiling junctions)
Lifestyle factors such as drying clothes indoors or insufficient heating
Excess humidity from kitchens, bathrooms, or overcrowding
Insulation defects leaving surfaces cold enough for moisture to condense
Common Causes We Find
Mould is more than just an unsightly problem — it can pose a genuine risk to health. Exposure to mould spores can worsen asthma, trigger allergies, and contribute to respiratory illness, particularly in children, older adults, and those with existing conditions.
While the much-publicised “toxic black mould” (Stachybotrys chartarum) is relatively rare, any visible mould indoors is considered a health hazard and should be investigated promptly.
For landlords and housing providers, the risks are not only medical but also legal. Damp and mould are treated as a serious housing health hazard under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
Following Awaab’s Law, social landlords must now investigate and repair damp and mould hazards within strict legal timeframes. Private landlords also have a duty under the Housing Act 2004 and the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 to keep properties free from damp and mould risks.
Our independent mould surveys provide clear evidence to support compliance and help protect tenants, landlords, and property managers alike.
Health & Legal Risks of Mould
How We Investigate
Diagnosing condensation is a process of elimination.
We begin with a non-destructive survey and provide a clear report before any further investigations are carried out.
Stage 1 - Initial Damp Survey
Step 1 – Understand the Problem
We start by gathering background information:
History of mould complaints
Occupancy use
Ventilation pattens
This helps us target our inspection efficiently.
Step 2 – Initial Non-Destructive Inspection
We carry out a detailed internal and external inspection using:
Moisture readings
Surface temperature checks
Thermal imaging where conditions allow
This first visit causes no damage — we use only existing access points such as loft hatches and ladders.
Step 3 – Report & Recommendations
We issue a clear, independent PDF report with:
Photographs and moisture maps
Likely causes of the condensation and mould problem
Practical, prioritised recommendations
Recommended next steps if further testing is needed
This report gives you the information you need to take action — whether that’s instructing repairs or authorising further investigation.
Stage 2 - Optional Further Investigations
If the cause remains uncertain, we may recommend:
Data logging of temperature and humidity over time
Air quality monitoring (CO₂ and RH trends)
Borescope inspection to confirm insulation continuity
Salts testing to rule out rising or penetrating damp
Stage 2 is only undertaken if needed, and always agreed with you after the Stage 1 report.
Concise PDF report with photos and recommendations
Independent report with photos and clear findings
Practical advice on reducing condensation and preventing mould growth
Recommendations for ventilation, insulation, or heating improvements
Support for landlords and housing providers with impartial evidence for tenant disputes
What You Receive
Clear, Transparent Pricing
We believe in complete transparency.
You’ll know exactly what you’re paying for, with no hidden costs and no sales agenda.
Stage 1 – Initial Non-Destructive Survey & Report
From £395 (no VAT)
On-site inspection
Moisture mapping and photographic evidence
Independent PDF report with findings and recommendations
The Stage 1 report gives you clear next steps — whether that’s instructing repairs or moving on to Stage 2 testing.
Stage 2 – Optional Further Investigations
Quoted separately, only if required.
Data logging of temperature and humidity over several days or weeks to track condensation conditions.
Air quality monitoring (CO₂ and RH trends) to assess ventilation performance.
Borescope inspection to confirm insulation continuity within wall or ceiling cavities.
Salts testing to rule out rising or penetrating damp as alternative causes.
Mould spore sampling and laboratory analysis to identify the exact type of mould present and determine whether concentrations exceed normal background levels. This can be especially useful where tenants raise health concerns or where independent evidence is required for disputes.
You’ll always receive a Stage 1 report first before authorising any Stage 2 works.
Pricing
Why Clients Trust Durndell Damp Surveys
With over 25 years of experience diagnosing damp issues in homes, historic buildings, and complex commercial properties, we bring unrivalled expertise to every survey.
As MRICS Chartered Building Surveyors, we follow RICS standards and always provide independent, evidence-based advice — never driven by sales targets or unnecessary treatments.
Why Choose Us
25 Years of Experience
We’ve spent decades investigating damp and water ingress problems across thousands of buildings — from modern homes to listed heritage properties and specialist environments like hospitals, schools, and laboratories.
This depth of experience means we quickly recognise patterns and causes that less experienced inspectors might miss.
Independent & Impartial Advice
Unlike contractors who offer “free surveys” in order to sell you chemical treatments or tanking, we don’t carry out remedial works.
Our role is purely diagnostic — giving you clear, honest advice on the true cause of the problem.
This protects you from unnecessary costs and ensures you only pay for what’s genuinely needed.
Regulated by RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors)
As MRICS Chartered Building Surveyors, we are regulated by RICS, which guarantees that our inspections, reports, and advice meet strict professional and ethical standards.
Our surveys are also backed by professional indemnity and public liability insurance, providing complete peace of mind.
You’re protected by the highest level of professionalism and accountability in the industry.
Clear, Practical Reports You Can Act On
We provide reports that are easy to understand and actionable. Each report includes:
Photographs and moisture maps
A root cause diagnosis, not just symptoms
Prioritised remedial recommendations
Guidance your contractor can implement confidently
Whether you’re a homeowner or managing a large estate, our reports help you fix or manage the problem properly.
Local Knowledge
Based in Milton Keynes, we understand the typical building styles and materials found across the local area, from historic stone cottages to modern housing developments.
Areas We Cover:
We are based in Milton Keynes and typically cover properties within a 30–45 minute drive, including Buckingham, Towcester, Northampton, Bedford, Aylesbury, Leighton Buzzard, and surrounding towns and villages.
If you’re unsure whether we cover your location, please get in touch — we’ll be happy to advise.
Request a Rising Damp Survey Today
If you are concerned about condensation, black mould, or poor indoor air quality, contact us today. Our independent surveys will help you identify the real cause and take the right action with confidence.
Our independent, RICS-regulated surveys provide a clear diagnosis and practical advice you can trust. With over 25 years of experience, we’ll help you identify the true cause of penetrating damp and guide you through the next steps with confidence.