Free Damp Surveys – Are They Worth It?

 

Ask yourself this question: “Would I go to work for free?”

Generally, the answer is no, so when you think about someone offering a “free service”, then you must ask yourself, “What is in it for them?”

Now, we are not saying that all companies offering a free damp survey will want to swindle you. However, you need to be cautious about who is offering them and what their motives are. Here are some key points to consider:

 

WHEN THEY MIGHT BE WORTH IT:

✅ Independent Surveyors – If the free survey is from a damp specialist with no vested interest in upselling you products (like guttering, roofing, cavity wall insulation, windows)

✅ Basic Quotes – If damp has already been identified in a particular area, and you want a quote for that area only.

✅  You already have quotes from another company and would like a comparison.

 

WHAT YOU SHOULD RECEIVE FROM A DAMP SURVEY:

✅  Make sure you receive a written quotation with a breakdown of what is included in the price and payment terms

✅  You should have access to any accrediations and certificates from the surveyor who is completing the damp survey. (A plasterer is not a qualified damp specialist)

✅  You should be supplied with any VAT registered details

✅ You should be supplied with a contact number and office address of the business

✅ You should ask about any guarantees provided

 

WHEN TO BE CAUTIOUS:

⚠️ Sales-Driven Companies – Many companies offering free damp surveys make money by selling expensive damp-proofing solutions, even when they’re not needed.

⚠️ Misdiagnosis Risks- Some “Free” surveys misdiagnose damp causes (eg, condensation vs rising damp) and push unnecessary treatments.

⚠️ Hidden Costs – Some may claim the survey is free but then charge for a detailed report or insist on paid services afterward.

⚠️ Cold Calling – People who turn up un-announced to provide you a damp survey.

⚠️ Easily Offended – Any reputable company will be happy to provide you with insurance details, certificates and previous vetted reviews

⚠️ Pressure sales – Someone pushing you to get the work done immediately or using scare techniques.

⚠️ Demanding cash – Anyone demanding cash and not supplying you with a receipt once the works are completed

 

BETTER ALTERNATIVES:

🔹 Get a Qualified Damp Surveyor – A paid survey from a qualified specialist is often more reliable and unbiased. (They are paid whether they find work or not)

🔹 A company that has not been paid might be more inclined to find extra work or add extra charges to cover their time for that “free survey”

🔹 Do some research on the company you are contacting, know who you are dealing with.

🔹 Ask a family member or friend to be present on the day of the survey so you have another person with you, if you are feeling pressurized.

 

FINAL VERDICT:

It is vital to correctly identify the damp problem you have so that the correct damp proofing treatment can be put in place for your property.

To do this, we would recommend a damp survey from a fully qualified damp proofing company. To find out more about our damp surveys please click here

Whether you decide to use our services here at Trustguard Ltd or someone elses, we hope the following has giving you some helpful tips on what to look for in a reputable company and decide for yourself if a free surveys is worth it in the long run.

We are always on hand to answer any questions you may have over the telephone on 0191 4159471 or you can submit some photos of your damp concerns to our surveyors at hello@trustguarddamp.co.uk and one of our friendly team will call you back to discuss.

You can always check our previous blog posts here to see if we have covered your queries or join our free monthly newsletter for helpful tips and advice regarding damp and mould here