Damp and Timber Investigation Survey

Matlock, Derbyshire

Blog
Mortgage lender requested a damp and timber report? Our PCA-approved surveyors explain the requirements, inspection and written report for your purchase.
· 5 min read
Being asked for a damp and timber report can feel like another obstacle when you are buying a house. However, the request does not automatically mean the property has a serious defect or that your mortgage will be refused.
At Damp Surveyors UK, we provide specialist damp and timber surveys to investigate the concerns raised during a property purchase. As PCA-approved specialists, we explain the evidence in a clear written report. This helps you respond to your lender with a better understanding of the property.
A lender may request further information where its valuation identifies suspected damp, timber decay or wood-boring insect damage. The purpose is to clarify a concern that could affect the condition of the property being offered as security.
The request might refer to a particular wall, room or timber defect, or ask for a wider damp and timber inspection. The exact wording matters because it helps determine what needs investigating and what the report must address.
We assess the concerns raised rather than assuming that a request for a report confirms a problem. Our investigation establishes what can reasonably be concluded from the accessible areas and the evidence recorded.
Before arranging a damp survey for mortgage purposes, ask your lender or mortgage adviser for the requirements in writing. This helps avoid commissioning an inspection that does not cover the questions the lender needs answered.
Useful information to obtain includes:
Send this information to us when you enquire. We will review the brief, explain the proposed scope and confirm whether our survey and report can address the request.
Choose a specialist with qualifications relevant to investigating damp and timber defects, while checking any specific conditions imposed by your lender. A general inspection or a quotation for work may not provide the information it has requested.
At Damp Surveyors UK, every inspection is undertaken by a CSTDB-qualified damp and timber surveyor. Our PCA-approved service focuses on investigating the property, recording the findings and explaining appropriate next steps.
We provide the survey and written report. Where work is recommended, the findings can help you obtain quotations from suitable contractors.
The scope depends on the lender’s concerns, the property and the access available. We explain what is included before booking so you understand which areas will be inspected.
Our survey may include moisture distribution checks, consideration of humidity and ventilation, inspection of accessible external defects and assessment of relevant timbers. Where appropriate, we investigate signs of woodworm, wet rot, dry rot or deterioration affecting floors and roof timbers.
We consider the evidence together rather than treating a single moisture reading as a diagnosis. This helps distinguish between possible causes and identify where further investigation is needed.

Some defects involve timbers or surfaces concealed beneath flooring, behind finishes or within roof spaces. A specialist survey cannot confirm the condition of every concealed area without suitable access.
If opening up is required, it must be agreed with the property owner and authorised before it takes place. We record restrictions and explain whether additional investigation is needed to answer the questions raised.
Arranging access early is particularly useful during a purchase. Speak to the estate agent or seller about roof hatches, affected rooms and any specific access requirements we identify when reviewing the brief.

Our damp and timber survey report sets out the areas inspected, the evidence found and the likely cause and extent of the concerns identified. It explains recommended next steps and highlights any limitations that affect the conclusions.
The report should give the reader a clear understanding of what is known and what remains uncertain. Where further investigation or repair is recommended, we explain why rather than leaving you with a list of unexplained defects.
You can share the findings with your mortgage adviser, solicitor and other relevant professionals. If the lender has asked for information beyond the survey report, such as contractor quotations, arrange those separately.

Matlock, Derbyshire

A request for a report does not, by itself, mean a retention has been imposed. Your lender’s correspondence should explain whether it needs information before making a decision or has attached a specific condition to lending.
Where a retention applies, part of the mortgage advance may be withheld subject to the lender’s stated conditions. Ask your mortgage adviser to clarify what must happen and whether any further evidence will be required.
Our role is to investigate and report on the damp and timber concerns. Decisions about lending, retentions and release of funds remain with your mortgage lender.
Checking the requirements before booking gives us the opportunity to confirm whether the proposed report addresses the requested brief. It also helps identify any additional information the lender expects.
No survey company can guarantee a lender’s decision. The lender may review the findings, ask follow-up questions or require further evidence depending on the property and the conditions of the mortgage.
A clear, appropriately scoped report gives you a documented basis for those discussions. It also helps you understand the findings for your own purchasing decision.
If your lender has requested a damp and timber report, contact us as soon as you have the written requirements. Allow time for access, the inspection, the report and any subsequent questions.
At Damp Surveyors UK, we confirm the scope and price before booking, with written reports normally provided within 48 hours of inspection. Appointment availability depends on the property’s location and access arrangements.
Call 0330 100 25 45 with the property postcode and details of your lender’s request. We will explain the appropriate damp and timber survey and help you understand what happens next.
Your lender may want specialist information about suspected damp, timber decay or woodworm identified during its valuation. The request allows it to assess the concern using a more focused investigation, but does not automatically confirm a serious defect.
No. A specialist report provides evidence about the property, but mortgage approval remains the lender’s decision. Check its requirements before booking and share the findings with your mortgage adviser.
Some lenders specify professional membership or qualifications for the person or company preparing the report. Ask for the exact requirements in writing; Damp Surveyors UK provides PCA-approved surveys undertaken by CSTDB-qualified surveyors.
No. A quotation prices proposed work, while a specialist damp survey report explains the inspection, evidence, conclusions and recommendations. Your lender may require a report, quotations or both, so check its wording before arranging either.
Ask your lender whether it will accept the existing report and check with the report’s author whether you can rely on it. Its age, scope, named client and any restrictions may affect its suitability.
Where access is available, we can coordinate the appointment with the seller or estate agent responsible for the property. Any intrusive investigation or opening up needs the owner’s permission and prior agreement.
We normally provide the written report within 48 hours of the inspection. Allow additional time for booking, property access and your lender’s review, particularly if further investigation is recommended.
Word gets around
Gemma Umney
3 weeks ago
I requested an urgent damp survey for a client Steven and his team completed my company's due diligence and attended the property to complete the work within 24hours. I was then presented with a comprehensive report within 48hours. Steven was extremely professional and nothing was too much trouble. Fantastic service Thank you guys 🙏
Carole Gilby
3 weeks ago
Catastrophic water damage to property affecting dining room, conservatory, kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. No obvious cause. Steven carried out a full survey and found the source of the problem In very quick time. He then prepared a comprehensive report for my insurance company within a couple of days. What a refreshing change to find somebody who is so reliable, efficient and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend AMPM Property maintenance.
Dave Emsley
a month ago
Really good thorough damp survey and genuine helpful guy.
jane grehan
a month ago
Really excellent service , carried out a damp and timber report for me. Friendly and professional and competitive prices.
Ed Foster
2 months ago
Steven at AMPM Property Maintenance conducted a pre purchase damp and timber survey for us. His communication was exceptional and the survey was completed very quickly. Steven called to discuss his findings and the report was very detailed. We would thoroughly recommend his services!
MorfittSmith Estate & Letting Agent
2 months ago
We recently used AMPM to carry out some work at our Morfittsmith office and were really impressed with the service from start to finish. The team were professional, reliable and completed everything to a great standard with minimal disruption. Really easy to deal with, efficient and a great job all round. We’d happily recommend AMPM and wouldn’t hesitate to use them again in the future. Thank you from all of us at MorfittSmith!
Sandra Fossumstuen
2 months ago
I had a damp survey done by AMPM at my property recently. The investigation was thorough and professional and I received a comprehensive report with suggestions as to how to remedy any issues. Agreeing on the work to be done was quick and Steve at AMPM was very helpful in arranging the work schedule, as I do not live at the property at the moment. The tanking was done promptly and efficiently and I received photos of the finished walls, which looked great. Good service and quality work!
Michael Redman
2 months ago
We had AMPM Maintenance to do a house survey for us. They were very professional and thorough with their inspection. Extremely prompt with their report and they made genuine and honest recommendations. They explained in laymans terms the problems of minor damp patches and identified areas which required improvement. They did a thorough examination of the roof structure and made us feel confident we are buying a structurally sound property. We will engage them to undertake the works required and would definitely recommend them.
Adam Knights
2 months ago
Perfect contractor! Had major issues with damp on some shops I won and AMPM did a fabulous job of fixing the issue that I’ve had for years. Thank you and highly recommend
Helen Aram
3 months ago
After a survey visit to my home which revealed issues with our suspended sitting room floor of extensive timber decay and evidence of wood boring beetles, not what you would want! The team provided excellent information about the work needed, they were professional, knowledgeable and thorough. All the affected joists were removed and replaced with new, like for like, treated timbers, which were isolated from surrounding masonry to prevent future damp issues to prolong their lifespan. The team also opened up the air circulation in the cellar to keep the area as dry as possible. The workmanship was excellent, clean, tidy and professional. Communication was also very good. We would recommend AMPM to others requiring specialist repairs, particularly their clear information, options and explanation of particular requirements relating to the work they carry out. Thanks so much for a great job!
Karen Bosworth
4 months ago
Recently used AmPm to complete a damp survey and timber check on the bungalow we are hoping to move into. Got a reasonable quote very quickly, and the survey was completed quickly as well. Phone call following survey to give us a reassuring overview of findings, and detailed report supplied. Very impressed.
Bridget Wood
6 months ago
We booked am pm property maintenance to help with a damp issue we had in our downstairs toilet. The service was excellent. After the initial inspection and quote they came out completed the work required and we have been totally satisfied with the results I would highly recommend.
Jack Capstick
6 months ago
Had an issue with damp all in the downstairs of the house, got in touch with ampm property maintenance and what an amazing job they did, can’t recommend more, all the workers were so friendly and did an amazing job, if you live in and around chesterfield and need some work doing can’t recommend them any more
Dominika Patel
6 months ago
Great service and profesionalizm from start till end of survey. Rapid response! Polite and respectful.! 100% recommended! Thank you !
Sarah Brent
6 months ago
"Fantastic 5-star service from the team at AM PM Maintenance Ltd. They were professional from start to finish and the quality of work is top-notch. It’s great to find a reliable local company here in Chesterfield. Highly recommended!"
John ryan
6 months ago
Had damp proofing works carried out in Chesterfield by AMPM property maintenance on an extension downstairs in our house due to damp issues, professional service throughout the work and communicated with us throughout the processes. The work has remedied the issues we were having.
James Hopkinson
6 months ago
Our En Suite doesn’t have sufficient ventilation and black mould and damp had started to be an issue. I got in touch with AMPM who assessed the situation and recommended various ways to cure the issue. Very happy with their work and no issues since.
Joshua Candy
6 months ago
Had some damp proofing works done in the living room and along the front wall of the house in Chesterfield, and I’m really impressed with the results from Ampm Property Maintenance. From start to finish everything was handled professionally. They diagnosed the issue properly rather than just guessing, explained exactly what needed doing, and carried out the work to a high standard. You can already feel the difference in the room no more damp smell and the walls are completely dry. The team turned up when they said they would, kept everything clean and tidy, and finished the job on time. It’s clear they know what they’re doing when it comes to damp proofing works in Chesterfield. Would definitely recommend Ampm Property Maintenance to anyone dealing with damp issues solid job all round.
Beth Wood
7 months ago
I couldn't be happier with the service we received with AMPM property maintenance. The communication with Stephen from the initial contact through to job completion was excellent. His quote and advice were clear and I never felt under pressure to be upsold. Stephen was very accomodating of us doing some of the messy work ourselves and using our own contractors for the electrics but gave excellent recommendations when we asked for them. The quote was really clear allowing us to make decisions about what to include in the works. Stephen sold his business on its own merits rather than slagging off other companies which is often what you get in this industry. The price of the work was excellent value for the quality of the work. Cameron who completed the work was possibly the world's best builder. Polite, friendly, quick, CLEAN and completed everything to a really high quality finish. We came home the first night expecting to have to spend hours cleaning up but Cameron had even mopped himself out. The job was completed exactly to time and exactly on budget. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend AMPM property maintenance for any job. Any more work we need doing in the future we will definitely use Stephen and the team.
Christine Blowen
7 months ago
First rate job, our bathroom had a leak which caused all the timbers in the floor to rot. I phoned Stephen and he came the same day to assess the damage. The following day we had a quote for the work and within a week he had started the work. Tom the plumber/carpenter pulled all the floor up and replaced all the rotten timbers. The herringbone LVT flooring finished to job off to a very high specification. Would definitely recommend Stephen, his company and would use them again.
dawn
8 months ago
The prospective buyers for my lovely old cottage were required to get a pre purchase damp and timber survey after the surveyor, sent by the mortgage lender, found some damp issues and possible woodworm. The prospective buyers contacted AMPM. Steven was honest and open from the start: on a positive note the roof timbers were deemed not to have woodworm and Steven advised vents needed to be put in the roof space to combat high moisture content. However, I was gutted to learn that my beautiful kitchen would have to come out as the lenders would not release any funds until all remedial work was completed. I read reviews on the website and was impressed by the feedback from their customers , so asked how soon they could begin work and how long they thought the work would take (2 more walls also needed damp proofing in 2 different rooms). Steven knew I needed the work doing asap and I was delighted when work started slightly before the 2 weeks quoted. Steven, Tom and Cameron proved to be a great team, taking great care removing and reinstalling the kitchen base units. They worked quickly and efficiently, taking great care covering carpets and removing doors to avoid damage. They also cleared up as much as possible at the end of every day. They did a thorough job and advised where more work was needed after work had started, checking with me first that I was happy for them to proceed. The plasterers were a great duo, starting early and finished by lunchtime with a great sense of humour. The work was still finished within the 2 week time frame, despite the extra work undertaken. Worth noting also that reinstalling the kitchen , which wasn’t in the original quote , was done at a very fair price, as was the extra damp proofing. I felt totally at ease with this lovely, professional team and have already asked Steven if they do bathrooms, as we will be needing a new one in our new home in the not too distant future … and that speaks volumes. Thank you so much guys.
James Ansell
8 months ago
A big thank you to Steven from AMPM for carrying out a damp survey at my property at short notice. Steven arrived exactly when he said he would, was polite and professional throughout, and turned the survey report around very quickly. I really appreciated the efficient service and would definitely recommend.
Lucy Barnes
8 months ago
To satisfy my mortgage lender, I needed a damp and timber survey carried out on the property I was purchasing, and AMPM Property Maintenance were excellent from start to finish. Steven was incredibly helpful, liaising directly with the estate agent and being flexible to arrange access to the property, which made the whole process much less stressful. The report was comprehensive, clear, and professionally presented, with a very speedy turnaround. Communication throughout was great — I was kept informed at every stage and any questions I had were answered promptly. I wouldn’t hesitate to use AMPM again in the future and would highly recommend their services.
Jamie Allen
8 months ago
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had a pre-purchase damp survey carried out by Ampm Property Maintenance and honestly couldn’t be happier with the service. They identified all areas of damp clearly and professionally, so we knew exactly what we were buying before committing. The level of professionalism was outstanding – the report was extremely detailed and included clear photos, which gave us total confidence. We were so impressed that we asked Ampm to carry out the remedial work they identified. The work itself was second to none, and the most impressive aspect was how clean and tidy the team were throughout the whole process. 100% would recommend Ampm Property Maintenance and their team – knowledgeable, professional, and a pleasure to deal with.
Gary Steele
9 months ago
We recently had some work undertaken by AMPM Property Maintenance Ltd. Stephen was very attentive when he called, pointing out to us that we had rising damp around our bay window affecting both the interior/exterior of the property. This was just prior to Christmas and once we agreed to go ahead with the work, Stephen was very accommodating allowing us to proceed with the external work prior to Christmas so we would not be in a mess over the festive period, and then returned after Christmas to complete the internal works. The work undertaken was carried out to an high standard in a very prompt and professional manner, with minimal mess. I would certainly recommend AMPM and would like to thank Stephen, Cameron and the plasterer for a job well done.
Simone Conboy
9 months ago
What, to a layman, looked like a horrendous undertaking, was solved with a smile and great sense of humour but more importantly absolute professionalism and respect by Steven and his team. The chimney was tanked, the walls re-plastered and everything including bookshelves and early 20th century skirting boards were replaced to perfection. What struck me most about this team was their cleanliness and transparency in their communication. The plasterer who belonged to Steven‘s team even accommodated my working hours and arrived especially early. I can recommend this company without any reservations and am happy to have found craftsmen of an honest nature! Thank you!
lea mather
10 months ago
We were required by our mortgage lender to provide a Damp and timber report from a company with certain qualifications, we quickly found Steve from AMPM who was professional, friendly and very knowledgable, we got an in depth report within days which helped immensely, Steve was approachable and had great communication from start to finish which you don’t usually get with bigger companies. I would 100% recommend and have since used them for another property issue
David Wilders
11 months ago
Fantastic job done for us fixing leak and refurbished bathroom. House kept very tidy throughout the job and plumber was very polite and helpful. Thanks again to Steve and all at AMPM
Nat Jade
a year ago
We had AMPM to deal with our rising and penetrating damp. Steven and his team were always on hand for advice and everyone arrived when they said they would. Cameron did much of the day to day labour and was diligent and very tidy. Everyone involved did exactly what they said they would in the agreed timeframe and left us with a clean and dry property ready for us to decorate. Steven has kept in touch after to check that everything is ok. Would recommend this company. Thank you.
Becky Farrell
a year ago
Steven and his team did a renovation on my house. There was a lot to coordinate with electricians, builders, plumber, joiner etc. Steven kept me in touch with everything as the project moved on and was always ready to look for creative solutions. The team were skilled and well able to think things through and do a great job without me needing to intervene or worry about the quality of the work. They also finished on time. There were one or two issues only and we were able to resolve them easily. If you want to have work done with the minimum of stress I would recommend Ampm.
Kezia
a year ago
I recently had a damp proof course carried out by AM PM Property Maintenance and couldn't be happier with the service. From start to finish, they were incredibly professional and efficient. The team worked quickly and kept everything running smoothly throughout the process. What really stood out to me was the convenience of having all the necessary work handled by one company—it made everything so much easier and stress-free. If you're looking for a reliable and skilled team for damp proofing or other property maintenance needs, I would definitely recommend AM PM Property Maintenance.
Dylan C Caffell
a year ago
I started working with AMPM last year to refresh my home and iv been impressed with the work so far My roof has been replaced I have an excelent new kitchen inclduing underfloor heating Onsite workers where clean and polite and Steven was easy to enage with in regards to the what I wanted to achive im looking foward to continuing the renovation project with AMPM later this year Dylan Caffell
Catherine Sidaway
a year ago
I absolutely love the kitchen that Steven and team have given me. I was confident from the start that Steven knew what he was talking about and he gave me a really clear quote so I knew what everything would cost. He talked me through what was needed to fix the significant damp problems and prepare the space properly for fitting a new kitchen. They did a great job taking the walls back to brick and installing a full height damp proof membrane, as well as replacing a section of the roof and fixing some of the pointing to the outside stonework. He put me in touch with designers at the two kitchen companies that I requested and was really helpful in helping me finalise and order the kitchen. I also really appreciate that he recommended a flooring that suited what I needed and the end result is exactly what I was looking for! Steven always let me know straight away about any issues they came across (like rotten roofing joists ans the existing floor being unexpectedly floating), provided solutions for how to overcome them, and then just got on with fixing them! Having Steven arrange all of the different trades to come and do their bits was a huge weight off my shoulders, and I appreciated that I always knew who was coming and when, and everyone turned up on time. Cameron did a fantastic job with fitting the kitchen and floor perfectly, despite the typical wonky walls in old Sheffield houses, and he really went above and beyond to make the end result look amazing! Would thoroughly recommend Steven and team from AMPM for any building projects, especially sorting out damp problems and fitting a beautiful new kitchen!
Richard Howorth
a year ago
We have lived in the property for over 35 years, and have not been generally been impressed with the odd maintenance work that we have needed to carry out - until now. We engaged AMPM Property Maintenance to initially carry out full redecoration of the complete property, one room at a time whilst the property was occupied, but also needed them to carry out all furniture moving to carry this out. They acted with a high degree of professionalism from the start and are easy to work with. From the start, we found that there were a couple of serious issues, the most pressing was rising damp in the dining room (that we had treated over 35 years ago) but was now very serious. This required the room to be gutted and the floor and joists to be replaced. The work was carried out to a high level of quality and completed before Christmas. The room looks great! We are now moving on with the full house decorations and fixing a problem with the roof caused by some shoddy work carried out 10 years ago by a, now bankrupt builder.
Charmaine Venus
a year ago
We are in the process of buying a Victorian house. We had a level two survey done and the surveyor we used recommended that we had a further specialist Damp and Timber survey done. She recommended Steven at AM PM property maintenance. I rang Steven and he talked me through what was involved, costs and availability. We found the whole process very professional, he conducted the survey and gave us a full detailed report and a price quote for the work that needed doing . Friendly and professional and honest. We will definitely use them to do the work that is required and any other work that we decide to do on our property. I love the Facebook page! The before and after pictures are amazing! Steven and his team obviously have a passion for what they do which I absolutely love ! Totally recommend 100% we feel lucky to have found them !
Catherine Anne Keeton
2 years ago
AM-PM undertook a whole house renovation for me. The property needed rewiring, all rooms plastering, new kitchen, wall removal and 2 new bathrooms. I was kept up to date at every stage of the process, all prices and purchases discussed, and updates given regularly. I had complete faith in Stephens management throughout and couldn’t be more happy with the end result. The house looks fabulous thanks to the team. I can wholeheartedly recommend this firm without hesitation
Sheena Ford
2 years ago
Last year, following the installation of our hot tub, we decided that the surrounding garden needed updating. Steven from AMPM came round and impressed us with his modern ideas and provided us with a very competitive quote. The work was carried out whilst we were away and we returned home to find a bespoke garden with raised decking around the hot tub, a raised patio area, a small lawn and modernistic fencing. The workmanship was first class and I would recommend AMPM to anybody.
Roger Bramley
2 years ago
Steven and the AMPM team did a fantastic job with damp proofing our property. The workmanship was second to none and the team was very informative through each stage of the process. Would highly recommend Steven and the AMPM team for any future projects you may have.
Nicholas Tully
2 years ago
AMPM saved me a fortune avoiding unnecessary plumbing costs when I found a leak under my bathroom. I’d been quoted four figures to rip up floor and take out the sink to investigate but Steven & Ian fixed the issue by adding a sealant through the boiler system. I’ve reinvested the cash into damp proofing the house and put in an air purifier so that the place is less damp and mouldy when we dry clothes inside. Top notch service!
James Evans
2 years ago
These guys provide an excellent service !
Dean Cocking
2 years ago
Excellent service from Steve from start to finish. Nothing was too much trouble. Would definitely recommend 👌
Ann Brent
2 years ago
I recently had a full house renovation using Steven from ampm I had my entire house taken back to the bear brick The ceilings and the floors were removed and replaced I had a complete new roof and windows the house was fully rendered From the start of the process Steven was so professional with plans and drawings He was always on hand to discuss any issues that I had with the renovation His team were always polite and showed up on time they were always mindful of keeping the site tidy After 9 months the house was complete I was overjoyed with my new home it was decorated to a high standard inside It has changed my life I'm so happy in my home with my dog George I would recommend Steven to anyone needing any renovations small or large
Dena Hooley
2 years ago
Great decorating job by am pm would certainly recommend them to anyone and will certainly be using them again thank you Steven and team
Christine Watt
2 years ago
We were delighted with our new roofing provided by AM-PM last year, so we came back for more. Steve managed a team of workmen to provide new flooring, insulation and access to our attic, which also involved extensive rewiring and plastering of upstairs rooms, and updating radiators to become more energy efficient. Again, Steve coordinated a team of plasterers, plumbers, electricians and decorators flawlessly, regularly coming to check that all was in order, discuss and agree future work, and the best ways forward. All his team were friendly and easy to get on with, and tidied up after themselves to make the process as undisruptive as possible. Again, delighted with Steve from AM-PM, and cannot recommend him highly enough.
Angela Ilott
2 years ago
AMPM completely refurbished the ground floor of our property. We had a serious problem with damp which they resolved. Any issues that arose were dealt with quickly and efficiently. Steven kept us informed at all times as to progress of the work. They fitted a new kitchen, flooring throughout and total redecoration. The work was carried out to a high standard and Steven and his team were on hand to assist with any queries and to offer practical solutions. Highly recommended.
Rachel Brent
2 years ago
100 percent would recommend using ampm Property Maintenance. I had brand new kitchen install. The service from start to finish was amazing. Steven went through all the finer details with me at each step. He was always willing to chat with any queries that I had. The end result was fantastic. We are so happy with our new kitchen. Time to start cooking !!!
frazer myers
3 years ago
I live abroad and totally relied on Steve for a full renovation of a 1 bedroom flat. The quality of work is superb and the communication throughout the job was 100%. Updates and photos were provided throughout. Steve also called if there were any issued and always offered several practical solutions. Totally trustworthy and a high standard of work. Very happy.