Module 1 Assessment — Damp Surveying Fundamentals

Question 1 of 6Which combination of findings points to condensation rather than penetrating damp?

A sharply defined patch mid-way up an exposed gable, worse after stormsBlack spot mould in external corners and behind a wardrobe, worst in winterA horizontal tide mark at 700mm with a band of salt crystallisationA localised wet area beside a heating pipe run, unchanged by the weather

Question 2 of 6A ground-floor stain appears on an internal wall about a metre above floor level. It arrived suddenly three weeks ago, has not changed with the weather since, and readings are consistently high in a tight area around a radiator pipe.Which mechanism should be at the top of your shortlist?

Rising dampPenetrating dampA plumbing leakCondensation

Question 3 of 6Moisture meter readings on their own are sufficient to establish which type of damp is present.

TrueFalse

Question 4 of 6How many candidate mechanisms should you keep open before narrowing towards a conclusion?

One — commit early and test itTwoAt least threeIt does not matter, provided you take enough readings

Question 5 of 6 · select twoA solid-walled Victorian terrace shows white powdery deposits and deteriorating plaster to roughly 400mm above floor level on two external walls. The upper edge is close to horizontal and the condition does not change noticeably between summer and winter.Which TWO findings support rising damp as the mechanism?

The white, powdery salt depositsThe absence of seasonal variationThe property being of solid-wall constructionDamage confined to low level with a near-horizontal upper edgeThe damp affecting two walls rather than one

Question 6 of 6Which of these belongs in the observation section of a report, not the interpretation?

"The damp is caused by a failed damp-proof course.""The pattern is consistent with surface condensation.""A discoloured area approximately 450mm wide was present on the north wall, upper edge approximately 600mm above floor level.""A chemical damp-proof course should be installed to the affected wall."