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Condensation & Insulation Survey -
Uncovering your property's secrets
At The Eco Advisory Bureau, we specialise in providing comprehensive Damp and Mould Surveys which go far beyond surface-level inspection to diagnose fundamental defects within the building fabric. Our surveys are informed by rigorous adherence to UK Building Regulations, notably Part C (Site Preparation and Resistance to Moisture) and Part F (Ventilation), as well as full alignment with the PAS 2030:2019 standard, a cornerstone document for the proper installation of retrofit energy efficiency measures under the UK’s Retrofit Standards Framework.
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We understand that dampness and mould are frequently misdiagnosed. Too often, superficial inspections; particularly those carried out by local councils or basic surveying services, attribute mould growth solely to lifestyle factors such as inadequate heating or insufficient ventilation by occupants. The typical advice offered, to "open windows more regularly," while well-intentioned, rarely addresses the true underlying pathology within the building envelope.
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At The Eco Advisory Bureau, our survey methodology is both forensic and holistic, ensuring no contributing factor is overlooked. Our process includes:
Comprehensive Building Fabric Assessment
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Detailed examination of the presence, continuity, and effectiveness of the Damp Proof Course (DPC).
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Inspection of external walls for signs of penetrating damp, compromised pointing, and defective render systems.
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Assessment of historic retrofit works, such as external wall insulation (EWI) and cavity wall insulation (CWI), against PAS 2030 installation best practices.
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Insulation Integrity and Thermal Performance Analysis
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Utilisation of thermal imaging technology where appropriate to detect thermal bridging, cold spots, and inconsistencies in insulation coverage.
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Identification of voids and patchiness within cavity wall insulation systems, a common defect that leads to localised condensation and mould growth.
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Assessment of loft spaces for adequate insulation thickness (meeting or exceeding 270mm as recommended) and for the presence of non-breathable membranes which inhibit necessary moisture migration, leading to interstitial condensation.
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Ventilation and Building Breathability Assessment
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Surveying for appropriate mechanical ventilation in 'wet rooms' (kitchens, bathrooms, and utility areas), including functional testing of extractor fans to ensure compliance with Approved Document F.
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Inspection of window systems for the presence and operability of trickle vents, which are essential for maintaining background ventilation.
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Evaluation of roof voids and subfloor spaces to assess natural ventilation pathways, ensuring the building envelope remains permeable to moisture vapour without compromising energy efficiency.
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Internal Services and Pipework Inspection
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Tracing concealed pipework for potential leaks contributing to damp manifestations.
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Checking pipe insulation adequacy, particularly where thermal differentials can encourage condensation.
What Sets Our Survey Apart
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Our surveys are methodical, data-driven, and evidence-backed. Each property is provided with a detailed written report, including:
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Full diagnostic commentary.
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Photographic evidence documenting defects.
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Specific remedial recommendations categorised by urgency and risk.
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Compliance analysis relative to Building Regulations and PAS 2030 standards.
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Importantly, our reports are trusted by multiple UK local authorities, and have directly resulted in enforcement actions, funding releases, and rectification works for leaseholders and tenants. We act as an independent, highly qualified voice in ensuring building defects are properly acknowledged and addressed.
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Our findings consistently reveal systemic issues missed by previous surveyors, including:
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Improperly installed or aged cavity wall insulation leading to thermal anomalies.
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Blocked or missing ventilation pathways causing excessive humidity.
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Breathability failures in roofspaces following retrofit works, such as incorrectly installed vapour control layers that trap moisture rather than allow vapour diffusion.
Demonstrating Our Impact: A Recent Case Study
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At The Eco Advisory Bureau, our commitment to technical excellence and forensic-level building pathology is reflected in the tangible outcomes achieved for our clients. The following case study highlights how our methodical, evidence-based approach has successfully identified critical construction defects missed by multiple prior inspections, leading directly to meaningful action by a local authority and the resolution of long-standing damp and mould issues for the property occupants.
Case Study: Leaseholder – Hillingdon Council
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"Persistent issues with mould growth and condensation on external walls led us to engage with our local council. Remedial works were undertaken, including roof repairs, updated guttering, replacement of soffits and fascias, and additional loft insulation, in the hope that these measures would resolve the persistent moisture problems. Despite these efforts, the issues not only remained but appeared to worsen over time.
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On commissioning a Damp and Mould Survey with The Eco Advisory Bureau, the surveyors quickly identified serious, previously overlooked issues: retrofitted cavity wall insulation was incomplete and inconsistent, creating thermal bridging that resulted in localised cold spots and surface condensation; and a non-breathable membrane had been fitted to the rafters of the roof above the loft insulation, effectively sealing moisture inside the property and preventing the essential roofspace ventilation required under Building Regulations Part C and BS 5250:2021 guidance.
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The Eco Advisory Bureau provided a detailed and professionally structured report, supported by extensive photographic evidence, highlighting these critical defects. Upon submission of the report to the council, immediate action was taken. The council acknowledged the authority of the report and endorsed The Eco Advisory Bureau as a highly reputable surveying organisation.
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Without the expertise and thorough investigative approach of The Eco Advisory Bureau, these fundamental construction defects would likely have remained unidentified, continuing to impact the health of the occupants and the long-term structural integrity of the property. Thanks to their intervention, we are now confident that the root causes of the damp and mould have been correctly diagnosed and will be fully addressed.”
Why Choose The Eco Advisory Bureau?
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Professional Excellence: All surveys conducted by experienced, fully qualified surveyors with a deep technical understanding of building pathology and retrofit compliance.
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Legislative Expertise: Full working knowledge of PAS 2030, PAS 2035, BS 5250:2021 (Management of moisture in buildings), and all relevant sections of the Building Regulations.
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Evidence-Based Advocacy: Our reports stand up to the scrutiny of housing associations, councils, insurers, and legal representatives.
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Client-Centred Approach: We ensure our clients understand the technical findings and are supported in navigating next steps for resolution.
Take Action with Confidence
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The Eco Advisory Bureau is proud to be trusted by tenants, leaseholders, housing associations, and local authorities alike for our rigorous, evidence-led surveys. We understand that damp, mould, and poor indoor air quality are not only building defects; they are health hazards that deserve proper, qualified investigation.
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If you have ongoing concerns about dampness, mould growth, condensation, or the performance of retrofit works in your property, do not settle for surface-level advice. Engage with specialists who will diagnose the real causes and provide the authoritative reporting needed to achieve lasting solutions.
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Contact The Eco Advisory Bureau today to schedule your Damp and Mould Survey for just £250; and take the first step towards a healthier, safer, and more resilient home.