Emergency Flooding & Water Ingress Surveys
When water suddenly enters a building — through flooding, burst pipes, or severe rainwater ingress — it can cause immediate disruption and long-term damage. Quick, independent advice is critical to minimise risk to health, protect the building, and support insurance claims.
We provide rapid-response emergency flooding and water ingress surveys in Milton Keynes and surrounding areas, giving you clear evidence and practical next steps when you need them most.
Sudden flooding following heavy rainfall or storms
Burst pipes or failed plumbing leading to internal water damage
Severe roof or gutter failures causing water ingress
Groundwater flooding entering basements or lower floors
Persistent water entry that contractors have failed to resolve
Situations where you need urgent independent evidence for insurers or landlords
When You Might Need This Survey
How We Investigate
In an emergency flood situation, our first priority is to assess the extent and impact of the water ingress. We begin with a Stage 1 rapid inspection, recording visible damage, identifying safety concerns, and capturing photographic evidence for insurance and remedial planning.
Once standing water has been removed, we can carry out moisture readings and mapping to track how far dampness has penetrated into floors, walls, and timbers. A clear written report is issued promptly, giving you evidence for insurers and practical next steps.
Where the full extent of damage is uncertain, we may recommend Stage 2 advanced diagnostics such as data logging of drying rates, endoscope inspections of concealed voids, or laboratory testing of samples. These are only undertaken if required and always agreed with you in advance.
Stage 1 - Initial Damp Survey
Step 1 – Immediate Assessment
We start by gathering background information:
Gather background information (when the flooding occurred, how water entered, what areas are affected).
Identify immediate safety risks (electrics, slip hazards, structural concerns).
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 and mapping of affected areas
Infrared thermography to trace hidden moisture
Photographic evidence of visible damage
This first visit causes no damage — we use only existing access points such as loft hatches, ladders, and safe visual checks of affected areas.
Step 3 – Emergency Report
Following the inspection, we provide a clear PDF report including:
Photographs of visible damage
Moisture readings and mapping of affected areas
Diagnosis of the likely source and extent of water ingress
Practical recommendations for drying, ventilation, and remedial action
Advice on reducing the risk of mould growth
This report is issued promptly so you can act quickly — whether that’s instructing repairs, arranging drying equipment, or progressing an insurance claim.
Stage 2 - Optional Further Investigations
Where further evidence or monitoring is required, we may recommend:
Data logging of humidity and drying rates over time
Moisture probe monitoring of timber, insulation, or finishes
Laboratory testing of samples (e.g. salts, mould spores, or material moisture content)
Endoscope/borescope inspection of concealed voids or cavities
Stage 2 investigations are only recommended if necessary and are always agreed with you after Stage 1.
You’ll always receive your Stage 1 report first before authorising any Stage 2 works.
Independent PDF report with photographs
Diagnosis of the source of roof leaks or rainwater ingress
Practical, proportionate recommendations for repair
Confidence to instruct contractors without overspending on unnecessary works
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 £495 (no VAT)
On-site internal and external inspection
Moisture readings and photographic evidence
Assessment of roof coverings, flashings, gutters, and downpipes
Independent PDF report with findings and recommendations
The Stage 1 report gives you clear next steps — whether that’s instructing targeted repairs or moving on to Stage 2 testing.
Stage 2 – Optional Further Investigations
Where further evidence is required, we can provide:
Tracer dye testing to track water ingress paths
Controlled hose/water testing on suspect areas
Localised opening-up works to inspect concealed roof details
Stage 2 investigations are only recommended if needed and always agreed with you after Stage 1.
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 an Emergency Flooding & Water Ingress Survey Today
Request an Emergency Flooding & Water Ingress Surveys
If you are dealing with sudden flooding, burst pipes, or unexpected water ingress, contact us today. Our independent surveys provide clear evidence and practical next steps when you need them most.
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.