Hi, I have had a survey done on the property I wish to buy and within a 35 page report the folloiwng was mentioned:
PLINTH and DAMP PROOF COURSE (DPC)
A cement plinth has been laid to the front of the property. The purpose of the plinth is to provide some protection to the brickwork to the base of the walls which are in constant contact with ground water. Generally this plinth was found to be in fair condition.
The presence of the plinth means we are unable to confirm whether the property has been provided with a damp proof course. Properties of this age and type would normally have a bitumen or slate dpc.
Please note that the recommended minimum height of the damp proof course is 150mm above external ground level. The reason for this gap is to prevent soil, etc. build-up and thus bridging the line of the damp proof course. If this occurs, it provides a path for rising dampness to by-pass the lining of the damp proof course and gain entry to the property.
Dampness was evident within the porch area. The failure in the damp proof course will involve extensive repairs, not only in installing a replacement damp proof course, but also replacing plaster within the building. The re-plastering will involve replacing any plumbing or electrical connections within the plaster, which has been removed and replaced. Furniture and decorations may be disturbed in carrying out the work.
The failure in part or whole of the damp proof course will also mean that any timbers that may be in the area of any of the damp walls will be vulnerable to fungal decay. This can be very expensive to eradicate and it is essential that timbers be opened up and checked so that the risk of decay can be quantified, and estimates obtained for any remedial work that may have not been carried out.
Is this a very serious issue? What sort of work is involved in this and how much would it cost to have this rectified.
Your expert opinions and help will be greatly appreciated.
THANK YOU.
Regards
