The free damp survey offered by chemical-injection companies usually concludes you need chemical injection. Independent surveyors more often diagnose condensation, leaks, or breathability problems — all of which have different remedies.
The three main South African damp problems
Penetrating damp
Water entering from outside — failed pointing, blocked gutters, defective rendering, broken flashings, ground levels above DPC.
Rising damp
Groundwater rising through capillary action. Genuine cases exist but are much rarer than chemical-injection companies claim. Often misdiagnosed.
Condensation
Warm moist air condensing on cold surfaces. The most common South African damp problem. Cause: lack of ventilation, cold walls, inadequate heating.
Why "free" surveys mis-diagnose
Surveyors employed by chemical injection companies are commission-paid on installation work. Their job is to find rising damp. Common errors:
- Moisture meter readings on plaster (which conducts when salts present) misread as damp
- Cold surfaces (condensation) misdiagnosed as rising damp
- Tide marks from old historic damp interpreted as active
- Recommendation: chemical DPC injection (R60,000–R160,000) when problem was a leaking gutter (R4,000)
Independent survey
SACPVP-qualified or SAICE-qualified surveyor with no installation interest. Methods include:
- Visual inspection of external sources
- Calcium carbide testing (true moisture content)
- Salts analysis
- Hygrometer (humidity) readings
- Thermal imaging
Cost: R8,000–R18,000 typically.
Remediation by diagnosis
- Penetrating: fix the external defect, dry out
- Rising damp (if genuine): chemical DPC injection or membrane
- Condensation: ventilation, dehumidification, heating consistency, anti-mould treatment
Heritage and breathability
Solid-wall and lime-built buildings need breathable repair systems. Modern impermeable renders, plasters, and chemical injections trap moisture and worsen problems.
MCFAR works with independent damp surveyors on heritage and modern buildings.
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MCFAR GROUP has been delivering structural engineering, building, and plumbing services since 1998. Talk to our team about your build, retrofit, or renovation.
Request a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Is rising damp real?
Yes, but rare — most South African buildings have an effective DPC. Always rule out other causes first.
Should I trust a damp guarantee?
Guarantees only cover the work specified. If the diagnosis is wrong, the guarantee is worthless.